Forest sign Ward-Prowse and Benfica defender Morato

Midfielder Ward-Prowse has 11 caps for England, scoring two goals

Nottingham Forest have completed deadline day deals for West Ham midfielder James Ward-Prowse and Benfica defender Morato.

Ward-Prowse moves to the City Ground on loan for the season and there is no option or obligation to buy.

The 29-year-old only joined the Hammers from Southampton for £30m last summer and made 51 appearances, scoring seven goals.

But boss Julen Lopetegui, who replaced David Moyes in May, has decided to let the 11-cap England international leave.

"I’m delighted to be here," said Ward-Prowse. "When I knew I had the opportunity to join the club and come and show what I can do, I thought it was a fantastic opportunity.

"Having played Nottingham Forest a few times, the atmosphere here is one of the best I’ve played in in the Premier League, so to now hopefully experience that week in, week out is something really special."

Morato made 86 appearances for Benfica and joins Forest on a five-year deal

Centre-back Morato joins for £12.6m, with the 23-year-old signing a five-year deal at the City Ground.

The Brazilian made 86 appearances for Benfica, winning the Primeira Liga in 2022-23.

Forest's chief football officer Ross Wilson said: "Morato has been in our thoughts and discussions to come into the squad for several transfer windows, and we’re delighted to have him join us today.

"We’re sure he’ll feel at home here in Nottingham and he will quickly become embedded and integrated as part of the squad."