West Ham United have officially completed the signing of Morato on a season-long loan from Nottingham Forest, reuniting the Brazilian defender with Nuno Espírito Santo.
The Hammers confirmed the deal on Deadline Day after Morato arrived in London earlier on Tuesday to complete the move.
The 25-year-old becomes West Ham’s eighth signing of the summer window and will wear the No.5 shirt.
Morato completes West Ham move
Morato arrives with experience in England and European football.
The Brazilian began his senior European career with Benfica, making 47 appearances for the Portuguese club and winning the Primeira Liga in 2022/23.
He joined Nottingham Forest in 2024 and played under Nuno during his first season at the City Ground.
Morato helped Forest finish seventh in the Premier League and qualify for Europe before making 13 starts last season as they reached the Europa League semi-finals.
That existing relationship with Nuno should help the defender settle quickly as West Ham attempt to strengthen a back line reshaped by Jean-Clair Todibo’s move to Lens.
Morato made his ambition clear after completing the transfer.
“I always want to win, I don’t like to lose, so I’m here to help this team get back to where it should be and get back to the Premier League as soon as possible.”
He also described himself as a hard-working, strong and technical defender while highlighting West Ham’s support as one of the club’s biggest strengths.
Director of Player Recruitment Nils Koppen said West Ham believe Morato will provide experience, reliability and depth to Nuno’s defensive options.
The Brazilian joins Keiber Lamadrid, Joël Veltman, Manor Solomon, Arne Engels, Joël Piroe, Divine Mukasa and Edvin Austbø among West Ham’s summer arrivals.
With Morato now officially through the door, attention turns to whether West Ham can complete any further business before the 11pm deadline.
