PRESTON North End look are hoping to start life in Division One with a player they have been trying to sign for weeks.

It is hoped that Sheffield Wednesday striker Richard Cresswell will sign for North End after Preston boss David Moyes issued a warning that he would not wait forever for the player.

And even though Cresswell has indicated his reluctance to leave the Yorkshire club, he knows he will face an uphill battle making it into the first team at Wednesday.

Moyes has tried for several weeks to capture the England Under 21 player who has been caught up in a cash wrangle at Hillsborough.

If Cresswell puts pen to paper he will become the North End frontman, a record signing for Preston at £800,000, and kick-start to their season which kicks off on Saturday (August 12) against Grimsby at Blundell Park.

Bermudan international striker Steve Astwood has joined PNE on a one year deal, subject to a medical and work permit.

North End have the option to extend his contract to two years.

The 18-year-old impressed Moyes during a four week trial period which saw him play at Burscough and again against Bilbao.

He has been snapped up for a nominal fee, with further payments subject to appearances.

American international striker Brian McBride is also in talks with PNE over a six-month loan spell.

The 28-year-old foward plays alongside Everton's Joe Max-Moore for his country, and bagged a goal against Iran in France 98.