Sunderland sign former Southampton defender Bourne

Sunderland sign former Southampton defender Bourne Sunderland have completed the signing of former Southampton defender Tara Bourne on a free transfer. The Lady Black Cats announced news of the deal via a post on their official club website this evening. The 22-year-old centre-back joins Sunderland following the expiry of her contract with Southampton. She has signed a two-year deal on Wearside. Bourne spent her youth in the academies at Manchester City, Liverpool and Manchester United. She made her senior debut for Manchester United in April 2021 in an Adobe Women’s FA Cup tie against Burnley. During her time with The Red Devils, Bourne gained senior experience in loan spells at Sheffield United, Blackburn Rovers and Birmingham City. The defender joined Sheffield United on a permanent deal in summer 2023 before joining Southampton the following year. On the international stage, Bourne has represented England at various youth levels up to and including Under-23 level. After joining Sunderland, 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.” Bourne is Sunderland’s second signing of the summer transfer window.