McClaren kept in close contact with his club while he was on World Cup duty with England and hopes to push through a series of deals before he goes on holiday.

Boro officials are trying to complete an �8m move for Empoli striker Massimo Maccarone, with only the method of payment still to be agreed.

And Leicester midfielder Muzzy Izzet expects to re-open talks with Boro on his return from the World Cup, although McClaren insists no fresh bid is yet on the table for a player he tried to sign last season.

"We have had no contact with Leicester since the last time and we're weighing up our options on the transfer front at present," said McClaren.

Boro are one of several clubs to be linked with Leeds striker Robbie Keane, although McClaren might struggle to find the necessary funds.

He remains confident, however, that he will find the right players to bring about an improvement on last season's patchy form.

"Over the next few days, I'm going to be working hard to bring in further signings and I'm hopeful of making some real progress before I go on holiday," McClaren told the club's website.

"I'm certainly looking at bringing in two or three more top quality players before the season begins.

"I'm only looking to bring in players who will improve the team and excite the fans.

"We all know what was missing last season, but I aim to give the fans a team that will create more chances and score more goals."