Sunderland AFC Women is delighted to announce the signing of striker Elise Hughes on a two-year contract.
The Wales international joins the Club following the expiration of her contract with Crystal Palace and arrives on Wearside with an outstanding goalscoring pedigree.
Hughes claimed the Championship Golden Boot in 2023-24 after scoring 23 goals in 27 appearances to help Palace secure promotion to the Women's Super League.
She joined the Eagles from Charlton Athletic in 2022 and finished as the Club's leading scorer in her first season before enjoying a prolific promotion-winning campaign.
Last term Hughes featured in all 22 Championship matches during the 2025-26 season, scoring four goals and providing one assist, as the Eagles sealed promotion back to theWomen’s Super League.
The 23-year-old has also represented Wales at senior level, scoring her first international goal in 2023 before featuring at UEFA Women's Euro 2025, the nation's first majortournament.
Upon signing for Sunderland, Hughes said: "It feels amazing to be here. This is a huge moment for me, and I'm excited to get started. The club has incredible ambition and a proud history, so it's a really exciting time to be part of it. I've spent a number of years in this league and have enjoyed success along the way. I hope to bring that experience to the squad and contribute as many goals and assists as I can."
Head Coach Mel Reay added: “We’re delighted to welcome Elise to Sunderland. She’s a proven goalscorer at this level and someone who brings valuable experience, both in the domestic game and on the international stage as a senior Wales international. She has a real desire to succeed, works incredibly hard for the team, and possesses the quality we believe will strengthen our attacking options. Just as importantly, she’s a fantastic person whose character and professionalism will be a great fit for the environment we’re continuing to build.”
Everyone at Sunderland AFC welcomes Elise to Wearside.
Image Credit - Sunderland AFC
