Nathanael Ogbeta: England-Nigeria left-back joins Maritimo on free transfer

England-Nigeria defender Nathanael Ogbeta has joined Portuguese side Maritimo on a free transfer from Plymouth, signing a contract until 30 June 2028.

The 25-year-old left-back moves to Liga Portugal after his deal with the League One club came to an end this summer. He becomes one of Maritimo’s first additions ahead of the new campaign as they look to strengthen their options on the left side of defence.

Salford-born Ogbeta, who stands at 1.84m and plays predominantly at left-back, has amassed more than 100 appearances in League One, scoring five goals and providing 12 assists in the division. Across all senior and youth competitions, he has featured regularly in league, cup and European youth fixtures, building a reputation for consistency and durability.

Ogbeta joined Plymouth in 2024 following a free transfer from Swansea City and spent the 2025-26 season on loan at Barnsley before returning to Home Park at the end of that campaign. Earlier in his career he had loan spells with Peterborough and Bolton while on the books at Swansea, gaining experience in both League One and the Championship.

A former Manchester City youth player, he progressed through the Premier League champions’ academy structure from youth level to the under-23s and was part of a side that won the U21 Premier League title in 2020-21.

Ogbeta’s move to Maritimo on a free transfer is effective immediately, with his deal running through to the summer of 2028.