The 28-year-old striker spent time in her early career with Notts County ahead of three years in American college football with South Alabama Jaguars and Texas A&M-Commerce Lions.

Following that spell, Haywood returned to English football in 2018 with Aston Villa. The first of her two years in the Midlands saw Hull-born Haywood make 32 appearances in the Women's Championship, helping Villa earn promotion in 2020 before going on to play two seasons in the top-flight.

Haywood made the switch to Sheffield United in 2022 and, after two years in South Yorkshire, she has now completed her move to the Magpies.

On signing for the club, Haywood said: "I'm really proud to become part of this great club. The ambition and support around the team is clear to see and I'm really excited to get started."

Manager Becky Langley added: "We're delighted to welcome Sophie to our squad for the upcoming season.

"Sophie is a player I have previously worked with in Nottingham. She is a confident character and is sure to add depth and quality to our attacking options.

"Her experience of helping Aston Villa gain promotion from the Championship to the WSL has given her valuable experiences. She is a driven player and she mirrors the ambitions we have on and off the field."