So the Magpies have been linked with a series of potential January targets including Lyon's Alexandre Lacazette, Wolfsburg's Bas Dost and long-term target Charlie Austin of QPR.
However, Steve McClaren seems to know nothing about the club's transfer business, saying only: "I haven't got a clue. Nothing has happened. When it does happen you will be the next ones to know.
"We can't disclose that, that's private. If anything does happen - you can name all the names you would like - but it's private. We will do our business and do it privately."
McClaren, to date, has not brought any player to the club ... Mike Ashley prefering to sign players picked by his scouts.