Wales striker Hughes joins Sunderland
Elise Hughes, the Wales international striker, has signed a two-year contract with Sunderland Women, a club competing in the Women's Super League 2 (WSL 2).
The 25-year-old forward moves to Wearside after announcing her departure from Crystal Palace in June. Hughes played a pivotal role in Crystal Palace's promotion to the Women's Super League during the 2025-26 season.
Throughout that campaign, she appeared in all 22 WSL 2 matches and contributed four goals to her team's successful promotion effort.
"This is a huge moment for me, and I'm excited to get started," Hughes said in an interview with the Sunderland club website.
"The club has incredible ambition and a proud history, so it's a really exciting time to be part of it.
"I've spent a number of years in this league and have enjoyed success along the way. I hope to bring that experience to the squad and contribute as many goals and assists as I can."
Sunderland finished eighth in the WSL 2 last season but are aiming to improve following a recent takeover of the club last month.
Hughes will join fellow Wales international Rhiannon Roberts at Sunderland. Additionally, Welsh player Mared Griffiths had a loan spell with the club last season.
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