Gray has agreed an 18-month deal with the League's bottom club.

The 31-year-old made just three appearances for Tranmere this season and started only 15 games for the Wirral club following his signing from Huddersfield Town in August 2002.

However, the former Terriers skipper and Mansfield centre-back has no shortage of experience.

He has chalked up over 350 league starts which Carlisle boss Paul Simpson will be hoping can help the Cumbrians turn round a disastrous start to the season.

Meanwhile, Simpson has allowed Hull City defender Shaun Smith to return to the KC Stadium following a month's loan.