AFC Bournemouth announce signing of Tilly Wilkes from Burnley F.C. Women | OneFootball

AFC Bournemouth have announced the signing of defender Tilly Wilkes from Burnley F.C. Women. The 26-year-old adds experience to the Cherries defence.

Born in Preston, Wilkes came through the Manchester United Centre of Excellence before two seasons with AFC Fylde Women.

She then moved to the United States for college football, playing three seasons at the University of South Alabama and two at Louisiana State.

Wilkes returned to England in October 2023 to join Burnley, where she captained the side to the FA Women’s National League Northern Premier Division title without defeat, earning promotion to the Women's Super League two.

Across spells in the UK and USA, she has made nearly 200 senior appearances.

She said she is excited to join Bournemouth, grateful for the opportunity and eager to embrace a new environment. She praised the club's ambition and growth and wants to get started.

Bruce Suraci, the club's head of women's football, described Wilkes as a high-calibre signing who suits an attack-minded style. He cited her technical ability, game intelligence, defensive reading and leadership, plus strong community engagement.

Source: Bournemouth Echo