Sunderland Ladies eye ex-Middlesbrough duo - but could face competition from Newcastle United

Boro have now confirmed that the pair have departed Teesside after the Echo broke the news of Sunderland’s interest earlier today.

Both Sunderland and Middlesbrough play in the FA Women’s National League North, which was cancelled due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

At the time of the FA’s decision, Sunderland were sitting 11 points clear at the top of the table but missed out on the title, with Middlesbrough finishing eighth.

The Echo understands that Watt - who began her career at the Lady Black Cats before moving to Boro in search of first-team football - is almost certain to re-join her former team in time for the new season, which hasn’t been announced by the FA yet.

The 21-year-old Sunderland-born right-back won both manager and player’s player of the season awards after the campaign was curtailed, making 21 appearances in all competitions.

Meanwhile, it is understood manager Mel Reay is also interested in bringing 20-year-old Emily Scarr to Sunderland.

The right-footed left-winger turned out 16 times before the season was called to a halt scoring six times for Steph Turnbull’s side.

Spennymoor-born Scarr played for Bishop Auckland girls then joining the Teesside Centre of Excellence before moving on to Middlesbrough Women.

An England youth international, Scarr has spent five-years with Middlesbrough and played a big part in the club’s most recent promotion, but looks set to leave after receiving interest from Sunderland and Newcastle United.