Sunderland officially sign former Manchester United defender

Manchester United have seen several former players move clubs already this summer as preparations continue for the 2026/27 season.

The Red Devils are also pressing ahead with their own transfer business.

They have already reached an agreement with Atalanta for midfielder Ederson, who is expected to be officially unveiled in the coming weeks.

Sunderland have also remained active in the transfer market as they continue building their squad ahead of the new campaign.

The Wearside club have maintained strong links with Manchester United in recent years.

Amad Diallo enjoyed a successful loan spell at the Stadium of Light during the 2022/23 season, and reports earlier this year claimed Sunderland had multiple permanent bids rejected as they attempted to bring him back.

Fresh addition arrives ahead of the new season

Sunderland have officially announced the signing of former Manchester United defender Tara Bourne on a two-year contract following the expiry of her deal with Southampton.

Bourne came through Manchester United’s academy before continuing her development elsewhere, representing Birmingham City, Blackburn Rovers, Sheffield United and Southampton.

According to Sunderland’s official website, the 22-year-old featured in every Championship match for Southampton last season, starting 21 of 22 fixtures while contributing two goals and four assists.

Speaking after completing the move, 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 described Bourne as the exact profile Sunderland wanted to recruit, praising her composure on the ball, aggressive defending and ability to dictate play from the back.

There has also been another recent Manchester United connection involving Sunderland.

During the second half of last season, United winger Mared Griffiths spent time on loan with Sunderland Women after completing a winter-window switch to gain valuable first-team experience.

Tara Bourne now becomes Sunderland’s second signing of the summer as the club prepares for a new era under Bay Collective’s ownership.