Rochdale have signed midfielder Ed Francis from Exeter City for an undisclosed fee.
Francis, 26, has agreed a two-and-a-half-year contract with the National League leaders.
He began his career at Manchester City and moved on to Wolves before spells with Harrogate, Notts County – who he helped win promotion to the English Football League in 2023 – and Gateshead.
Francis joined League One side Exeter during the summer of 2024 and played 64 times for the Grecians. His final appearance for them came in last month’s 10-1 defeat against Manchester City in the FA Cup.
Rochdale had previously tried to sign Francis, who told the club’s website:, external “I’m absolutely thrilled. As soon as I heard the interest was there it was something I wanted to get done.
“It feels like a long time coming. It was two years ago when we first spoke, and I believe everything happens for a reason.”
Dale are two points clear of second-placed York City and 11 ahead of third-placed Scunthorpe.
“Hopefully I can bring a bit of experience to the boys that are already flying,” Francis added.