Santino Samuyiwa: Sweden-Nigeria forward joins IK Start on free transfer

IK Start have signed Sweden-Nigeria centre-forward Santino Samuyiwa from Real Sociedad C on a free transfer. The 20-year-old has agreed a deal with the Norwegian club until 30 June 2029.

Samuyiwa, who stands at 1.85m, moves to Start after a spell in Spain with Real Sociedad’s youth and development sides. He arrives having most recently featured for Real Sociedad C, completing his switch on 23 July 2026.

Primarily a central striker, Samuyiwa has already experienced international youth tournament football, making three appearances in the Premier League International Cup at under-21 level last season. He started every game in that competition and played the majority of available minutes.

Born on 7 January 2006, Samuyiwa holds both Swedish and Nigerian nationality and began his career in Scandinavia before heading to Spain as a teenager. He initially left Orgryte’s under-17s to join Real Sociedad’s youth ranks in 2022, later progressing to their under-19 side and then to Real Sociedad C.

His move to IK Start marks a return to the Nordic football scene after four years in the Spanish system. Samuyiwa’s contract in Kristiansand runs to the summer of 2029, confirming a long-term switch from Real Sociedad C to the Norwegian club.