Maritimo secure Nigeria midfielder Israel Isaac Ayuma on loan from NK Istra

Nigeria central midfielder Israel Isaac Ayuma has joined Portuguese club Maritimo from Croatia’s NK Istra on loan until 30 June 2027.

The 20-year-old, who was born in Orhuwhorun, makes the move to Liga Portugal after spending the previous two seasons with Istra. He joined the Croatian side’s senior squad from Istra 1961 Under-19s in July 2024.

Ayuma’s switch takes him from the SuperSport HNL to Portugal’s top flight, with Maritimo becoming the second senior club of his career. His move was completed on 2 August 2026.

The 1.85m midfielder began his recorded club career with Mavlon before moving to Istra 1961 Under-19s in August 2023. He then progressed to NK Istra, where he remained until the transfer to Maritimo.

Ayuma has been registered as a central midfielder and is now contracted with Maritimo for the duration of the loan agreement. The arrangement includes a return to NK Istra at its conclusion on 30 June 2027.

He has yet to make an appearance in the 2026-27 SuperSport HNL campaign, with his move taking place at the start of August. His current market value is recorded at €300,000.

Ayuma’s arrival gives Maritimo a Nigeria international-born midfielder with experience of Croatian football and a recent pathway from under-19 football into the senior game. His move also marks his first change of country at senior level.

The agreement is a loan transfer from NK Istra to Maritimo, with the Nigerian midfielder due to return to the Croatian club when the deal ends.