Toronto FC: Auro Jr. permanent signing signals step in right direction

Toronto FC show their intent to improve on a disappointing season, by exercising their option to make Auro Jr.’s loan deal permanent.

There’s no denying Toronto FC suffered a fall from grace, just one season after winning their first ever MLS Cup. Actually, rather than a fall from grace, crash-landing into the ground like an asteroid seems like a more apt description.

As good as TFC were in 2017, they were almost as bad this past season. From setting a (at the time) league record for regular season points, they essentially halved that total (69 to 36), to finish with the joint-fifth worst record in MLS.

With this in mind, the Reds now must set about the task of improving the team and returning to the playoffs. In theory, this shouldn’t be too difficult; the nucleus of the roster is still the same as the one which won the MLS Cup.

However, the very fact TFC performed so poorly in 2018, means that something has to be done. In this respect, the team made a welcome move on Monday.

More from Toronto FC

• Federico Bernardeschi ready for new challenge with Toronto FC
• Toronto FC remodel continues with departure of Alejandro Pozuelo
• Toronto FC looking to move on from Carlos Salcedo
• As Lorenzo Insigne arrives, Toronto FC looks to get back on track
• Toronto FC: 3 takeaways from 2-1 loss to Columbus Crew

As reported by TSN, Toronto FC announced they have exercised their option to buy Auro Jr. from Brazilian side Sao Paulo. Essentially, his loan deal has been made permanent.

Auro made 28 total appearances during the 2018 campaign and registered five assists. This included 18 appearances and three assists in MLS play.

There is no denying signing the 22-year-old permanently, is an excellent decision. He offers versatility, pace, good dribbling ability and an impressive work rate.

As you would imagine, general manager Tim Bezbatchenko was thrilled with the turn of events. As reported by Torontofc.ca, Bezbatchenko said:

"“Auro showed in 2018 that he’s a very capable two-way player and an important part of our team. Auro is an attacking threat on the wing who also puts in solid defensive work. We are excited to get this deal done and ensure Auro is a Toronto FC player as we continue to shape our roster for the 2019 season.”"

After joining São Paulo at the start of 2014, Auro failed to make an impact. Toronto FC was the third team he was loaned out to, after previous spells with Brazilian clubs Linese and America Mineiro.

However, now that he has some stability, the São Paulo native will have the opportunity to take his game to the next level. This could conceivably include adding to his international experience with Brazil, after making a combined 19 appearances at the under-17 and under-20 levels.

Financial terms of the deal have not been officially confirmed at the time of posting. However, Kurtis Larson previously reported the option to make the deal for Auro permanent, was around $750,000.

Auro’s loan deal was set to conclude on Dec. 31. He earned $272,504 in guaranteed money during the 2018 season, including a base salary of $200,004.

What is your opinion on how Auro Jr. performed this past season for Toronto FC? Do you agree with the decision to make his loan deal permanent? Share your thoughts in the comments section below.