United States international Edson Buddle has joined Birmingham City on trial.
Forward Buddle, a team-mate of David Beckham at Los Angeles Galaxy, finished top scorer in the Major League Soccer campaign that has just come to an end.
And McLeish, who his keen to strengthen his struggling side, admits the 29-year-old American could make a permanent move to St Andrews for a cut-price fee if his trial is successful.
The Scot told the club's official website: “We've got an American guy Edson Buddle in and he's trained with us this week and he's done fine.
“I'm not sure when he goes back. I think he's here for next week as well because we'd like a longer look at him. He's been scoring goals in the MLS and had a good season, and he's available."
He added: “I'm not sure of the facts, but I know it's not going to cost us and arm and a leg if we do it.
“Work permits are obviously the stumbling block, but America are in FIFA's top 70 and he's been playing regularly for them.”