Sunderland Bag French Defensive Recruit

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Sunderland Land French Defender

Sunderland AFC Women have snapped up Tess Laplacette on a permanent deal, bringing the 27-year-old defender across the Channel from France. She becomes the club's ninth recruit ahead of the 2026-27 campaign - and at this rate, they'll need a bigger dressing room.

A CV Worth Reading

Laplacette arrives with serious pedigree. She captained Olympique de Marseille and played a key role in their French Second Division title triumphs in 2016 and 2025. Stints at Paris FC and Lille round out an impressive domestic career, as WSL Football reports.

Youth International Pedigree

At international level, Laplacette has 22 caps for France's U17 and U19 sides. Not too shabby for someone now bringing that experience to the north-east of England.

What The Bosses Say

Laplacette herself said she's thrilled to sample English football. Sporting Director Rehanne Skinner praised her leadership and performance levels, while Head Coach Reay highlighted both her defensive solidity and attacking threat. Sounds like a bargain, frankly.