Toronto FC announced today that the club has signed Brazilian left back Matheus Pereira from Portuguese side Clube Desportivo Santa Clara (First Division, Portugal) through the 2027-28 MLS season, with a club option for 2028-29. The defender will be added to the club’s roster pending the receipt of the International Transfer Certificate (ITC), work permit and medicals.
“Matheus is a competitive, attack-minded left back, who has the versatility to also contribute further up the flank,” said Toronto FC General Manager Jason Hernandez. “His acceleration, running capacity and final delivery will be important for us as we look to balance our effectiveness on both sides of the pitch. We are excited to begin working with Matheus and look forward to welcoming him to our city.”
Pereira, 25, joins Toronto FC after spending the past season with C.D. Santa Clara, where he made a combined 49 appearances in all competitions since joining the Portuguese side in July 2024. He made his debut against NK Varaždin in a UEFA Conference League qualifier on July 24, 2024. Prior to his time with Santa Clara, Pereira also featured for Futebol Clube de Vizela (Portugal, Second Division), where he registered four assists and five goals in 57 appearances since joining the club in 2022.
The São Paulo, Brazil native began his professional career with Brazilian side Cruzeiro, where he came through the youth ranks and made his professional debut as a 19-year-old in Campeonato Brasileiro Série B against América Futebol Clube on August 29, 2020. With Cruzeiro, Pereira made a combined 61 appearances across all competitions (Campeonato Brasileiro Série B, Copa do Brasil and Campeonato Mineiro). In 2022, the left back also spent time on a short-term loan with Guarani Futebol Clube, where he registered three goals and two assists in 26 appearances across all competitions.
TRANSACTION: Toronto FC sign Brazilian defender Matheus Pereira from C.D. Santa Clara through the 2027-28 MLS season, with a club option for 2028-29. He will be added to the club’s roster pending the receipt of the International Transfer Certificate (ITC), work permit and medicals.
Birthdate: December 21, 2000 (Age – 25)
Hometown: São Paulo, Brazil
Pronunciation: Peh-rei-rah
Last club: Clube Desportivo Santa Clara
