Toronto FC Closing in on Chilean International Benjamin Kuscevic - Rumour

Toronto FC’s backline has spent the opening weeks of the 2026 MLS season looking less like a defensive unit and more like a polite suggestion. But if recent reports hold water, relief is on the way. According to Tom Borgert, sources indicate that TFC is finalizing a deal to bring in Chilean international center-back Benjamin Kuscevic from Fortaleza on a loan deal with an option to purchase.

At 29, Kuscevic isn't a prospect; he’s a experienced player with the kind of South American pedigree that suggests he’s seenand survived much more chaotic environments than a trying to defend against the Vancouver Whitecaps.

Kuscevic isn't just a regular in Brazil’s grueling top flight; he’s a winner. His resume reads like a "How-To" guide for defensive success. He was part of the legendary Palmeiras squads that dominated the continent, claiming back-to-back Copa Libertadores titles (2020, 2021). Also, with 14 caps for Chile, including recent starts in late 2025 against the likes of Russia and Peru, he remains a fixture in the La Roja setup.

Additionally, a stint in Real Madrid’s youth system (U19) provided the tactical foundation that has made him one of the most reliable right-footed Centre Backs in South America.

Kuscevic arrives in Toronto in high gear. During the 2025 Brazilian Serie A season with Fortaleza, he was a defensive workhorse, logging over 1,700 minutes and maintaining an aerial duel win rate of approximately 62%. He is a pure defender. While he won’t be mistaken for a playmaking libero (his passing accuracy averages around 78%), he excels at the necessary things - blocking, interceptions, and clearing his lines.

The 2026 season has been a defensive horror show for head coach Robin Fraser. Following a 3-2 opening loss to Dallas and a demoralizing 3-0 drubbing by a Thomas Müller-led Vancouver Whitecaps, the porous label has stuck. TFC is currently missing Nicksoen Gomis (Achilles) and Zane Monlouis (Adductor). This has forced Fraser to play Kosi Thompson—a natural midfielder—at center-back alongside Walker Zimmerman. While Thompson is a trying everything in his arsenal to be competent, the lack of a natural partnership has led to defensive errors and poor spacing.

Kuscevic is referred to as a "Key Signing" because he addresses TFC’s most glaring identity crisis: they are too easy to play through. By securing a loan with an option to buy, GM Jason Hernandez is minimizing risk while maximizing immediate impact. If Kuscevic can translate his Brazilian Série A grit to the BMO Field turf, TFC might finally stop the bleeding and give their high-priced attack—led by new arrival Josh Sargent—a chance to actually win some games.