Sunderland Women confirm Dale exit as Brown signs new deal for 2026/27 | OneFootball

Sunderland Women face mixed contract news for 2026/27, with striker Eleanor Dale leaving after declining a new deal, while academy full-back Jessica Brown has signed for another year.

The club said in a statement on Tuesday that Dale had departed on the expiry of her contract. It added that the 24-year-old joined from Everton in summer 2024, made 37 appearances and scored 17 goals.

Dale was offered fresh terms this summer but will move on after two seasons. She was prolific in her first campaign on Wearside and central to a strong mid-season run, but injuries hampered her last term and the club had wanted to keep her.

Brown, a defender from the academy, has agreed a one-year contract. Head coach Mel Reay said Brown is an energetic, modern attacking full-back who fits the club’s standards and ambition, and that they are excited to see her continue developing.

Dale is one of the few players offered deals to depart, with Katie Kitching, Brianna Westrup and Natasha Fenton among those extending. Summer recruitment will be led by Rehanne Skinner, appointed Technical Director by new owners Bay Collective earlier this week.

Source: Sunderland Echo