Adam Dugdale has signed a six-month contract with League Two strugglers Tranmere Rovers.
The defender had been available for a short period of time following his release by Crewe Alexandra.
"He's a strong, determined defender who has a lot of experience at this level and higher. He's a good addition to our squad," manager Micky Adams told the club's official website.
Meanwhile, explaining the decision to let the 27-year-old leave Gresty Road, Crewe boss Steve Davis said to BBC Radio Stoke: "We weren't prepared or in a situation to offer him that [a contract] until the summer.
"He's got his family and his future to think about so we felt it best, with the cover we've got, to do it. He's sad to leave, he's been a brilliant servant for the club and we wish him well."
Dugdale is expected to make his Rovers debut against Exeter City on Saturday.
