RIO DE JANEIRO, Feb. 2 (Xinhua) -- Highly rated Uruguayan teenager Martin Chaves has joined Gremio on a year-long loan deal from Penarol.

The 18-year-old midfielder confirmed the move in an interview with Brazil's Radio Bandeirantes on Thursday.

"It's a great opportunity. Gremio is a big Brazilian club and I'm very happy to be playing here," Chaves said.

Despite having successfully represented Uruguay at youth level, Chaves has had few opportunities with Penarol's first team.

Gremio qualified for this year's Copa Libertadores - Latin America's top club trophy - by winning the Copa do Brasil last year.

They will make their debut in the continental competition with an away clash against Venezuela's Zamora on March 9.