Croatian top-flight club NK Istra have completed the signing of highly rated Nigerian defender Mutari Momoh from Lagos-based Mavlon FC on a five-year contract.

 

Momoh, an 18-year-old central defender, has been widely tipped as one of Nigeria’s most promising young talents and has earned the nickname “Nigeria’s Van Dijk” due to his similarity in style to Liverpool and Netherlands captain Virgil van Dijk.

 

Known for his smooth tackling and calm presence at the back, Momoh combines intelligence with pace and physical strength. He is strong in aerial duels, difficult for attackers to dispossess, and has built a reputation as a reliable barrier against opposition attacks, breaking down plays with both ease and determination.

 

Before opting for a move to NK Istra, the young defender attracted interest from several European clubs, including Italy’s Udinese and Spain’s Almeria, among others, highlighting his growing reputation on the continental stage.

 

Interestingly, Momoh makes the leap to European football without having featured for any of Nigeria’s age-grade national teams, a rare path that underscores his rapid rise through club football.

 

His move to Croatia is expected to provide him with a solid platform to further develop his game and potentially push for future international recognition with Nigeria.