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

Sunderland Women have signed defender Tara Bourne as their second summer recruit under new owners Bay Collective, according to Sunderland Echo.

Bourne arrives after leaving Southampton.

She follows 2023/24 Championship golden boot winner Elise Hughes, who joined last week. The 22-year-old England youth international started all but one of Southampton’s fixtures and recorded six goal contributions from centre-back.

Head coach Mel Reay called it a crucial addition as preparations for the 2026/27 campaign continue. She said Bourne fits the profile, a composed, ball playing centre-back who defends aggressively and can dictate play from deep. The club are confident she will make a significant contribution.

Bourne said she is excited to get started, wants to win, challenge for promotion and develop, and will give 100% each week for the badge. She cited a conversation with Reay, familiarity with some team-mates and a visit to the Academy of Light as factors behind her decision.

Bay Collective are leading preparations for the new season and have appointed former Spurs and West Ham boss Rehanne Skinner as technical director.

Source: Sunderland Echo