AFC Bournemouth have announced the signing of defender Tilly Wilkes from Burnley F.C. Women.
Wilkes, who captained Burnley to an unbeaten league title last season, brings a wealth of experience to the Cherries' backline.
The 26-year-old, who was born in Preston, began her football journey at the Manchester United Centre of Excellence and later spent two seasons with AFC Fylde Women before heading to the United States for college football.
She played three seasons at the University of South Alabama and two at Louisiana State before returning to England in October 2023 to sign for Burnley.
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Wilkes said: "I’m really excited to be here, and I’m really grateful and blessed to have this opportunity.
"I’m excited to meet new people, have a new environment and a new everything; I’m really excited.
"The ambition and the growth that the club has had over the past few years, even in the north you can see it.
"You can see how big the club has been growing and the steps that have been taken, it’s all in the right direction.
"I’m excited to get going and keep heading in that right direction."
During her time at Burnley, Wilkes helped the team finish the season unbeaten in the FA Women’s National League Northern Premier Division, earning them promotion to the Women's Super League 2.
She has also made nearly 200 appearances across clubs in the UK and USA.
Bruce Suraci, head of women’s football at AFC Bournemouth, said: "Tilly is a fantastic addition for us and a great way to wrap up our recruitment for now.
"Technically, Tilly is an outstanding player at this level and possesses a level of game intelligence that will make her a real asset to Helen's attack-minded game model.
"She also brings valuable experience to the backline out of possession, reading the game at a high level and pressing aggressively.
"Tilly arrives with professionalism, motivation and leadership.
"Importantly, Tilly has also played a significant role in the community at her previous clubs, regularly taking part in fan engagement events and building connections with young supporters through social media.
"She will be a strong role model within the team and the wider community."
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