Sunderland AFC Women is delighted to announce the signing of defender Tara Bourne on a two-year contract.
The 22-year-old joins the Club following the expiration of her contract with Southampton and becomes the second signing to the Black Cats’ squad ahead of an exciting new era under Bay Collective's ownership.
Bourne arrives on Wearside after an impressive spell with Southampton, where she featured in every Championship match during the 2025-26 season, starting 21 of 22 fixtures. She also contributed four assists - ranking joint sixth in the division - and scored twice.
The centre-half brings valuable Championship experience, having also represented Sheffield United, Blackburn Rovers and Birmingham City.
Speaking about joining the Lasses, Bourne said: “I’m really excited to get started. Having had a conversation with Mel (Reay), knowing some of the players and walking around the Academy of Light has me really excited to get going now.
“I want to win, challenge for promotion and develop as a player. I will give 100% every week and give everything for the badge.”
Head Coach Mel Reay added: “We’re delighted Tara has signed for Sunderland. She’s exactly the profile of player we wanted to add to the squad - a composed, ball-playing centre-back who defends aggressively and has the quality to dictate play from the back. She has all the attributes to help us control games with and without the ball, and we’re confident she’ll make a significant contribution to what we’re building here.”
Everyone at Sunderland AFC welcomes Tara to Wearside and wishes her every success in red and white.
Find out more about Tara signing for the Lasses here
Image Credit - Sunderland AFC
