West Ham United appear to have made a major Deadline Day breakthrough, with Morato reportedly set to join from Nottingham Forest on loan with an option to buy.
According to West Ham Central, citing ESPN Brasil, the former Benfica defender is already in London to complete the move.
That is significant progression from the earlier talks over whether the deal would be a straight loan or include a future purchase clause.
Morato set for West Ham move
West Ham had been negotiating with Nottingham Forest over Morato after his proposed switch to Roma stalled.
The 25-year-old already knows Nuno Espírito Santo well from their time together at Forest and can operate both at centre-back and on the left side of defence.
That versatility has become increasingly important following Malick Diouf’s departure and Jean-Clair Todibo’s move to Lens.
West Ham had explored several alternatives, including Ladislav Krejci and Melvin Bard, but both pursuits have suffered setbacks.
Morato now appears to have moved firmly to the front of the queue.
The report states that the Brazilian will arrive on a loan with an option to buy, rather than the obligation previously discussed.
No official announcement has been made yet.
But with Morato reportedly already in London to sign, West Ham look to have finally found the defensive reinforcement Nuno has been demanding.
