The former England midfielder turned down the offer of a new two-year deal due to the travel involved from his family home in the north-west.

Ince, who will be 35 in October, joined Boro from Liverpool for �1m and took over from Andy Townsend as club captain.

Boro boss Steve McClaren said: "In an ideal world, we'd have liked Paul to stay.

"He was terrific for me last season and gave excellent service to the club for three years.

"However, we understand the reasons behind his decision and wish him well in whatever he decides to do next."

Ince played 106 games and scored nine goals for Boro.

It is understood they were keen for him to move to the north-east to cut down the travelling, but he decided to look for another side.

He has been consistently linked with a series of clubs in England as well as a return to Italy with Brescia.

Ince said: "I would like to thank the Middlesbrough fans for all their fantastic support during my three years as captain of the club."

McClaren was already looking to sign several new players and the departure of Ince makes the need for reinforcements even more acute.