Uncapped Gremio center-back Pedro Geromel has been called up to Brazil's squad for their World Cup qualifiers against Ecuador and Colombia next month.

The 30-year-old replaces Rodrigo Caio, who has been ruled out with a groin injury, the Brazilian football confederation said on Saturday.

Geromel has been one of the most consistent central defenders in Brazil's Serie A championship since his 2014 move from Spanish club Malaga.

His career has also included a six-year spell at FC Koln in Germany.

Brazil will play Ecuador in Quito on September 1 followed by a clash with Colombia in Manaus five days later.

The Selecao are currently sixth in the South American zone qualifying standings for 2018 World Cup in Russia. The top four teams will book a direct berth in the tournament while the fifth-ranked side will earn a playoff spot.

Source : XINHUA