Former Nigeria U-20 midfielder Israel Ayuma has completed a move to Portuguese top-flight club Marítimo CF, adding another chapter to his growing European football career.
The 21-year-old midfielder joins Marítimo from Croatian side NK Istra on a one-season loan, with an option to make the move permanent for a further two years.
Sports247 understands that the agreement could see Ayuma remain in Portugal beyond the initial loan period if Marítimo decide to activate the purchase option at the end of the season.
Ayuma spent the 2025/26 campaign with NK Istra, making 17 appearances in the Croatian topflight and scoring once.
The versatile midfielder originally moved to Croatia from Lagos-based Mavlon FC in the summer of 2023.
He quickly adapted to European football and developed into an important member of Istra’s squad.
Known for his energy, technical ability and creativity in midfield, Ayuma has also built a reputation for his defence-splitting passes and powerful long-range efforts.
His performances at club level earned him recognition with Nigeria’s Flying Eagles, where he was part of the squad that represented the country at the 2025 FIFA U-20 World Cup in Chile.
The move to Marítimo represents another significant step in Ayuma’s development as he prepares to test himself in Portuguese football.
With his versatility, physical energy and ability to contribute both defensively and offensively, the former Mavlon player will be hoping to establish himself quickly in Portugal and turn the loan move into a permanent transfer.
Ayuma’s switch also further underlines the growing pathway for young Nigerian talents from domestic football into European leagues, with the midfielder now presented with another opportunity to take his career to the next level.
