Transfer Tracker

Orlando City land defender Antonio Carlos from Brazil's Palmeiras on loan

Antonio Carlos - Palmeiras - celebrating

TRANSFER TRACKER STATUS:Signing


Orlando City have signed defender Antonio Carlos from Brazilian Serie A side Palmeiras on a one-year loan with an option to buy at the conclusion of the 2020 season, the club announced Monday.


The 26-year-old is eligible for Targeted Allocation Money, with Orlando having until the roster compliance deadline to determine whether Antonio Carlos will be a TAM signing or Designated Player.

Antonio Carlos appeared 56 times for Palmeiras since joining the club on loan in July of 2017, including in 22 games during their 2018 league title campaign. He also brings the experience of 11 Copa Libertadores games with his former club.


“We are thrilled to welcome Antonio Carlos to Orlando City," Orlando executive VP of soccer operations Luiz Muzzi said in a statement. "He is an experienced center back, having played many seasons in Brazil’s top-flight, that brings both speed and a great ability in the air to our back line.”


Prior to his time with Palmeiras, Antônio Carlos had loan stints with Serie A sides Avai and Flamengo, as well as Serie B club Ponte Preta. In that span he has recorded 43 appearances across the three clubs, scoring two goals.