Signings in January window are on Newcastle United’s agenda

McClaren’s side are deep in relegation trouble after a second successive Premier League defeat. Third-bottom Newcastle were beaten 1-0 by West Bromwich Albion at The Hawthorns yesterday.

In recent weeks, head coach McClaren has steadfastly refused to even acknowledge the need for incoming transfers, though he has now conceded that there will be top-level discussions this week.

Asked about the window, he said: “That’s something that we like to keep private.

“We’re working behind the scenes and, in the next few days, that will be on the agenda. That’s how we do our business, very privately.”

Meanwhile, McClaren was furious a referee Mike Jones’ failure to award a penalty against Jonny Evans for a second-half foul on striker Aleksandar Mitrovic.

“There was no pulling or tugging (from Mitrovic) – he had taken the ball away from the defender,” he said.

“The defender has grabbed him around the waist – it’s as blatant a penalty as you will see.”

Goalkeeper Karl Darlow, a late change to the team after Rob Elliot was struck down by sickness, fumbled Fletcher’s header on the line.

“I think he’ll be disappointed with the goal, but in general he came in and did the job,” said McClaren.

“We were worried (about Elliot) from about lunch time. He’s a warrior, and he wanted to play, (but) he was too ill.”