Sunderland Women have pulled off a major coup in the transfer window, securing Jamaican international forward Atlanta Primus on a free transfer. The Lady Black Cats announced the deal via their official club website, marking the sixth signing of the summer.
What does Primus bring to Sunderland?
Primus arrives at Sunderland with a wealth of experience in the Barclays WSL2, having played at that level for six consecutive years. Her most recent spell was with London City Lionesses, Southampton and Charlton Athletic, where she featured in every Barclays WSL2 fixture for Southampton last season. There, she scored four goals and provided three assists, demonstrating her consistency and creativity in attack.
On the international stage, Primus has earned 23 caps for Jamaica, netting one goal. She was part of The Reggae Girlz squad at the FIFA Women’s World Cup Australia & New Zealand 2023, adding valuable tournament experience to her profile. Sunderland’s technical staff will hope her WSL2 pedigree translates into impact in the Championship.
Why this signing matters now
With the 2026-27 season approaching, Sunderland are building momentum under The Bay Collective’s backing. Primus joins a side that finished seventh in the Premier League last term with 54 points from 38 games, showing steady progress. Her arrival adds depth and quality to a forward line that will be crucial in the upcoming campaign.
The club’s recent form offers further cause for optimism. Sunderland ended their 2025-26 season with a 2-1 home win over Chelsea on 24 May 2026, and have won three of their last five matches, including a current three-game winning streak. Their next fixture, a home clash against Leeds on 30 July 2026, will be the first chance to see Primus in action.
Player reaction and club response
Primus expressed her excitement about joining Sunderland, calling it “a long time coming.” She highlighted the club’s ambition under The Bay Collective and praised the chance to compete at a higher level. Sunderland manager Mel Rees welcomed her arrival, noting her WSL2 experience and international pedigree will strengthen the squad as they target promotion challenges.
Primus is the sixth summer signing for Sunderland, who have reshaped their squad with an eye on closing the gap to the top of the table. With the new season just weeks away, her integration will be a key focus for the coaching staff.
Sunderland sit seventh in the Premier League final table from 2025, with 54 points, 14 wins, 12 draws and 12 losses from 38 games. They scored 42 goals and conceded 48, leaving them six adrift on goal difference.
