Sao paulo: Sao Paulo has signed Chilean forward Gonzalo Tapia on loan from Argentina's River Plate, the Brazilian Serie A club said on Friday. The 23-year-old will be tied to Sao Paulo until June 2026 under a deal that includes a purchase option.

According to Namibia Press Agency, Tapia expressed his enthusiasm about the move, stating, "I'm very happy and excited. When the club approached me about coming here, I had no doubts. The truth is, I really wanted to come. Sao Paulo is one of the biggest clubs in Brazil, and I will always give my all for the shirt."

Tapia's stint with River Plate was brief, making just seven appearances since his March transfer from Universidad Catolica. The Chile international was reportedly a special request of Argentine manager Hernan Crespo, who returned for a second spell in charge of Sao Paulo last month.

Sao Paulo is currently struggling in the league, sitting 16th in the 20-team Brazilian top flight standings with only two wins from 14 games so far.