Tranmere Rovers have completed the signing of free agent Tom Ince on a two-year contract, the League Two club announced on July 27, 2026.
The 34-year-old attacking midfielder joins after his contract with Championship side Watford expired on June 30.
Ince earned the deal after featuring as a trialist in Tranmere's 2-0 pre-season friendly win against Blackpool, where he started the match.
Experienced Campaigner
During his three-year spell at Vicarage Road, Ince scored 11 goals in 93 appearances across all competitions, including hat-tricks against MK Dons and Birmingham City.
He made 28 appearances last season, with 11 starts, but struggled for regular game time under managers Paulo Pezzolano and Ed Still after previously being a regular under Javi Gracia.
The move marks Ince's first time playing in League Two.
He has accumulated 103 goals in 505 league appearances throughout a career that included stints at Blackpool, Hull City, Derby County, Huddersfield Town, Stoke City, and Reading.
Ince began his professional career at Liverpool, making his debut in the 2010–11 season after coming through the club's youth system.
"It's a great feeling, a bit full circle for me. I'm looking forward to it," Ince said.
He added that his hunger and desire have sustained his long career.
"I think that's what's allowed me to have the career that I've been able to have, the amount of games I've been able to play and the level I've been able to reach."
Watford Praise
Watford chief executive Scott Duxbury praised Ince's professionalism and influence during his time at the club.
"He has been fantastic, he's a really good professional and he's fantastic around the place," Duxbury said.
Duxbury highlighted Ince's training standards: "He gave his all in training and he's probably one of the best training players we had - every coach said that to me."
He also noted Ince's positive impact on younger players. "A really good influence in the changing room and he'll be sorely missed."
Duxbury added that the club is seeking similar characters in future recruitment. "They're the kind of characters you need at a football club."
He concluded: "We need to hopefully find them a bit younger, no disrespect to Tom, but he'll be sorely missed and I wish him nothing but the best for the future."
Tranmere's Gain
Tranmere manager Darrell Clarke highlighted the experience Ince brings to a squad that finished fourth from bottom in League Two last season.
"He's played at a very high level throughout his career," Clarke said.
Clarke added that Ince will provide creativity and composure in the final third while mentoring younger players.
"He'll give us creativity, composure and versatility in the final third, while his experience will be invaluable to some of our younger players."
Ince could make his official debut in Tranmere's EFL Cup preliminary tie against Rochdale on Saturday, ahead of their League Two opener against Shrewsbury on August 15.
