Nottingham Forest defender Morato has joined West Ham United on a season-long loan. The centre-back's move to London was confirmed this week.
Morato will spend the 2026-27 campaign with the Hammers under manager Nuno Espírito Santo, who previously managed Nottingham Forest. The Brazilian defender made 66 appearances for Forest after transferring from Benfica, scoring one goal. That goal came in a 3-2 defeat at Old Trafford against Manchester United in May 2026.
Morato is a 25-year-old centre-back who began his senior career with Benfica. He played for the Portuguese club's first team from 2019 to 2024, making 47 appearances and scoring one goal. His time there included a notable 2-1 win over Sporting CP in the Primeira Liga on 12th November 2023. Before that, he featured 47 times for Benfica B, netting four goals. He also gained experience in England's Sky Bet Championship during a previous loan spell.
His move to Nottingham Forest brought him to the Premier League, where he became a regular option in defence. His departure comes as Forest sit 15th in the Premier League table with one point from two games. Their recent form reads DL, with two goals scored and three conceded for a -1 goal difference.
West Ham manager Nuno Espírito Santo knows Morato from their shared time at the City Ground. The manager commented on the transfer. Nuno Espírito Santo said: "Morato's next chapter in his career is in London where he joins West Ham United on a season-long loan under former Forest manager, Nuno Espírito Santo."
The loan provides West Ham with defensive cover and gives Morato a fresh challenge. For Nottingham Forest, the move temporarily reduces their squad options as they handle the early season. They are currently five points behind league leaders Manchester City. The club's full roster is listed on our squad page.
Losing Morato, even temporarily, affects Nottingham Forest's defensive depth. His 66 appearances for the club demonstrate he was a relied-upon player. Manager Nuno's successor must now plan without him for the entire season.
The team's immediate focus turns to their next fixture, a home match against Tottenham on 5th September 2026. Tottenham currently sit 20th in the table, making it a significant early-season encounter. Fans can view all upcoming matches on our fixtures schedule. Forest will be looking to improve on their current defensive record of three goals conceded in two games.
Morato's loan to West Ham United is now official. His first opportunity to face his parent club will come when the two Premier League sides meet later in the season.
