Connor Wickham in PFA free agent squad with former Massimo Cellino target Fernando Forestieri | OneFootball

Connor Wickham, 33, is part of the PFA’s free agent pre-season group as he seeks a new club. The programme keeps unattached players fit and stages friendlies with scouts watching.

According to yorkshireeveningpost.co.uk, week three began on Monday with 45 players involved, Wickham among them. He previously had a Leeds loan in 2014.

Then 20, he arrived from Sunderland on a six-month deal under Brian McDermott, chasing regular minutes. Three years earlier he had joined Sunderland for £8m and harboured ambitions of representing England.

Handed the No 9 shirt, his impact was limited. He made five Championship appearances without scoring and was recalled by Sunderland after four weeks.

Wickham moved to Crystal Palace for £7m in 2015 and spent six years at Selhurst Park, including a loan at Sheffield Wednesday. He has also played for Preston North End, Cardiff City and Charlton Athletic, and last season turned out for Dubai City.

The PFA group also features former Leeds target Fernando Forestieri, whose pursuit ended amid a row with Massimo Cellino in 2015. Leeds had agreed a fee with Watford before a late reversal, Cellino later saying the forward lacked the mentality for Elland Road and he instead joined Wednesday.

Forestieri shone for Wednesday that season, taking man of the match when they beat Leeds in January 2016. After the game he posted a playful message about having the right mentality and thanked supporters.

Source: yorkshireeveningpost.co.uk