Squad overhaul amid influx of signings and investment boost - Sunderland, Newcastle and Durham well set

Players have come and gone, pre-season has begun, the fixtures have been released. It won't be long until the rollercoaster of WSL2 is upon us and our three North East teams.It doesn't feel that long ago since the 2025/26 season ended with a North East derby and a huge investment but, in the period between then and now, plenty has happened.Sunderland were in the process of receiving large investment from Bay FC in America. This has been completed and with it plenty of transfer movement on Wearside.Following the announcement, Mel Reay moved quickly in the break to secure many of her first team squad on contract extensions. The Black Cats have brought in eight new players to the replace the same number departing, including club products and favourites Louise Griffiths and Libby McInnes.‌Thei