Sunderland Women sign Tara Bourne as second summer addition under Bay Collective | OneFootball

Sunderland Women have made their second summer signing under Bay Collective, recruiting defender Tara Bourne after her Southampton departure.

According to Sunderland Echo, Bourne played in all but one of Southampton's games last season and recorded six goal contributions from centre-back. Her arrival follows last week's addition of 2023/24 Championship golden-boot winner Elise Hughes.

Head coach Mel Reay called it a crucial signing as preparations intensify for the 2026/27 campaign. She described Bourne as a composed, ball-playing centre-back who defends aggressively and can dictate play from the back.

Bourne said she is eager to get going, encouraged by conversations with Reay, familiar faces and a look around the Academy of Light. She pledged to give 100% every week for the badge and aims to win, challenge for promotion and develop as a player.

Bay Collective are steering preparations for the new season and have appointed former Spurs and West Ham boss Rehanne Skinner as Technical Director.

Source: Sunderland Echo