Sonny Finch signs two and a half year deal

We are thrilled to announce the permanent signing of Sonny Finch from Middlesbrough FC, who has put pen to paper on a 2-year deal with the Mariners!

Finch joined the Mariners in January and, since then, has cemented his place in Ian Watson’s starting XI, creating 14 goals in 13 games, his first coming against Southport in a 1-0 win at home.

The twenty-year-old striker signed his first professional deal at the age of seventeen in August 2022, having been with Boro since the age of thirteen. Finch travelled with the first-team squad for their most recent pre-season trip to Portugal.

Sonny made his professional debut in the EFL Cup, at home to Barnsley in August 2022.

Finch joined League Two side MK Dons on a season-long loan in August 2024, making his debut against Salford City in a 1-0 away defeat. He scored his first senior goal in a 5-1 away win against Harrogate Town.

In October 2021, he represented England at U17 level in qualifiers, also making his U18 debut against Croatia.

Finch has made six appearances for Boro at senior level, and this season has scored five goals in nine games in the Premier League Two.

Sonny has an impressive goalscoring record at youth level, featuring in 88 games, scoring 36 goals.

Ian Watson is overjoyed to bring Sonny in permanently.

“We’re delighted to bring Sonny into the football club on a permanent basis. He’s a player with real quality and potential, which he has demonstrated during his time here.

This is an incredible signing for the football club and shows the ambition we have here. We’re all working as hard as we can to make South Shields FC the best football club it can be. Sonny wanting to sign here is a credit to the players and the culture they have created for players to really want to be part of what we’re building.”

Sonny Finch went on to say.

“I’m absolutely delighted to get this done. I’ve really enjoyed my time here over the last few months, so making it permanent was an easy decision for me.”

“From the moment I arrived, I felt at home. The lads, the staff and the fans have all been brilliant with me, and that made me want to stay.”

“It’s a great club with real ambition, and I’m excited to be part of what we’re building here.”

“I feel like I’ve developed a lot already during my time here, and I know there’s still more to come from me.”

“I just want to keep working hard, contributing to the team, and hopefully we can achieve something special together.”

“I can’t wait to get back out there and continue where we left off.”