ORLANDO, Fla. – Orlando City B announced on Tuesday it had acquired Brazilian center back Léo Pereira on loan from official partner Clube Atlético Paranaense. The move is the first player transaction between the two clubs since announcing a partnership in November, 2016.

“We're really pleased to capture a player of Leo's quality. He can operate as a center back or left back and has great pedigree having played at a good level in Brazil and for the Brazil youth national teams,” OCB Head Coach Anthony Pulis said. “He's aggressive, reads the game well and is very comfortable in possession. We're really excited to welcome him to our group and start working with him.”

Pereira joins the Lions after playing most of the 2016 Série B season with Clube Náutico Capibaribe. The 21-year-old made five appearances for Capibaribe while on loan from Paranaense. In 2015, Pereira made eight appearances with Brazilian side Guaratinguetá while on loan from Paranaense.