The Hammers are closing in on a defender their old boss knows well. There’s just one problem: the fanbase who watched him every week can’t stand him.

West Ham United are reportedly in talks to bring in Nottingham Forest defender Morato on loan — reuniting him with manager Nuno Espirito Santo, who originally signed him during his time at the City Ground. But before Hammers fans get too excited, there’s a warning sign flashing loud and clear from Forest’s own supporters.

Why West Ham Are Interested

According to insider ExWHUemployee, West Ham are in active discussions over a loan deal for the 25-year-old Brazilian, though Forest are reportedly pushing to include an obligation-to-buy clause as part of any agreement.

On paper, the appeal is obvious. Morato offers genuine versatility, capable of playing both centre-back and left-back — two positions where West Ham are short-staffed following yet another turbulent summer of squad rebuilding. Add in the fact that Nuno already knows exactly what he’s getting, having given Morato 29 appearances during their time together at Forest, and the move looks like a logical, low-risk fit.

The Problem: Forest Fans Are Not Holding Back

Here’s where things get complicated. Nottingham Forest supporters have been almost unanimous in one specific verdict on Morato: he’s been a liability who’s cost the team points.

The criticism has been consistent and pointed:

• “Let him go, he’s been terrible.”
• “Should be getting shot due to his performances.”
• “Morato cost Forest points every time he plays. So many mistakes… He isn’t even good enough for the Championship.”
• “Can’t head, can’t tackle, can’t read the game, yes he can run a bit.”

Others simply called for him to be sold or “got rid” of entirely, with one fan bluntly stating: “He’s a liability, not Premier League standard, I can’t believe anyone would want to keep him.”

Should West Ham Be Worried?

It’s a fair question. Fan opinion is never a perfect scouting report, but a consistent, repeated warning about costly individual errors — especially from supporters who watched him week in, week out — is hard to simply wave away, particularly with West Ham’s own defence already under scrutiny this season.

There’s also broader context to consider. West Ham fans have already expressed frustration with parts of the club’s summer business, questioning the ambition behind several signings despite significant funds generated through player sales. If Morato arrives and struggles immediately, the decision to overlook such a clear warning will inevitably resurface.

It’s also worth noting Nuno’s track record with reunions hasn’t always paid off — his push to bring Adama Traore back to West Ham is one example that didn’t work out as hoped. With his own position under pressure following a difficult start to the season, this move carries real risk attached.

In Other West Ham News: A Ready-Made Weapon Arrives

Away from the Morato saga, West Ham have unveiled Norway U21 winger Edvin Austbø as their sixth summer signing, in a £12m deal from Viking. Crucially, Austbø revealed he arrives already match-fit — having completed a full pre-season and reached the halfway point of the Norwegian domestic campaign, unlike most late-window arrivals who need weeks to find their rhythm.

With West Ham winless in three Championship games and pressure mounting on Nuno, that readiness could prove crucial fast.