Sunderland Women are stepping up their preparations for the new campaign after Bay Collective’s takeover

Sunderland Women have suffered a transfer setback ahead of the new campaign after striker Eleanor Dale opted not to sign a new contract.

However, defender and academy graduate Jessica Brown has opted to sign a new deal on Wearside in a significant boost to Mel Reay's plans for 2026/27.

Dale was offered a new deal this summer but is set to move on for a new opportunity after two years at the club. The striker was prolific in her first season on Wearside having joined from Everton, and was central to the club's strong mid-season form. Dale was impacted by injury and struggled to repeat that form last time around, but her undoubted ability meant she was a player that the club was very keen to retain.

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A statement from the club on Tuesday said: "Sunderland Women can confirm that forward Eleanor Dale has departed the Club on the expiry of her contract.

"The 24-year-old joined the Black Cats from Everton in the summer of 2024 and went on to represent the Club 37 times, scoring 17 goals. Everyone at Sunderland AFC would like to thank Eleanor for her contribution over the last two seasons and wish her well in the next chapter of her career."

Dale is one of the only players offered a new deal this summer to move on, with Katie Kitching, Brianna Westrup and Natasha Fenton amongst those opting to extend their stay at the club. Recruitment this summer will led by Rehanne Skinner, who was appointed Technical Director by the club's new owners Bay Collective earlier this week.

Full back Brown has signed a one-year deal at the club. Head coach Reay said: “We’re delighted Jess has committed her future to Sunderland. She’s a modern, attacking full-back who brings real energy and quality down the flank, and she embodies the standards and ambition we want at this football club. We’re excited to see her continue to develop in a Sunderland shirt.”

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