What is next for West Ham United as Morato 'due to sign' in last-gasp transfer

West Ham look set to complete the signing of Nottingham Forest defender Morato.

The Brazilian defender has previously worked under Irons manager Nuno Espirito Santo.

With the Hammers needing reinforcements at the back, it makes sense for the Portuguese manager to turn to players that he trusts.

The East London side are lacking at both centre-back as well in the left full-back area with deadline day now here.

And Morato could be a shrewd option to help ease concerns in both departments.

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What is the latest on Morato to West Ham?

According to the Daily Mail's Tom Collomosse, Morato is now "due to sign for West Ham."

That comes after the Hammers and the Tricky Trees were in talks over a deal to bring the Brazilian to East London in the final day of the window.

The move is a loan deal with an option to buy at the end of the season, with Nuno finally adding another defender to his ranks.

It was said that Morato would join on a straight loan, but it appears West Ham have negotiated an option to keep him should he be a success in E20.

As a left-footed centre-back, the Nottingham Forest man has also played at left-back, another position the Irons have been needing to recruit.

Why West Ham still need a left-back

Although Morato could deputise at left-back, the Hammers could do with a more attacking option.

El Hadji Malick Diouf's attacking prowess down the flank will certainly be missed if they cannot suffiecently replace him.

Harry Amass is a player on West Ham's radar, but it does remain to be seen if a deal can get over the line.

It could be a busy end to the window yet with that left-back signing needing to be next.