The 32-year-old former Queens Park Rangers and Bristol Rovers player is out of contract at Prenton Park and relishing the prospect of a return to Division One football.

"I wanted someone flexible and Steve certainly fits the bill," Warnock told the club's official website.

"He can play in a number of positions, including both full-backs and centre-back and he has played at the highest level.

"I have always been impressed with his professional attitude and like the fact that he has chipped in with a number of goals, which defenders should do."

Bristol-born Yates has started over 500 senior games and ends a three-year stay at Tranmere.

"It is nice to step back up to this level, especially with what I consider a big club," he said.