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

Sunderland Women have made their second signing of the summer under new owners Bay Collective, bringing in defender Tara Bourne after her Southampton exit.

Her arrival follows last week’s capture of 2023/24 Championship golden-boot winner Elise Hughes.

The 22-year-old England youth international started all but one of Southampton’s fixtures and produced six goal contributions from centre-back.

Head coach Mel Reay called it a crucial addition as preparations step up for the 2026/27 campaign, describing Bourne as a composed, ball-playing centre-back who defends aggressively and can dictate from the back. She said the club are confident Bourne can help them control games and make a significant contribution.

Bourne said she is excited to get started after speaking with Reay, adding that knowing some of the squad and visiting the Academy of Light has strengthened that feeling. She said she wants to win, challenge for promotion and develop as a player, and that she will give 100 percent each week for the badge.

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

Source: Sunderland Echo