Former Scotland and Premier League manager Alex McLeish believes Tottenham would have to 'break the bank' to sign Illan Meslier this summer.

The Lowdown: Key performer for Leeds

There have been a number of key players for the Whites this season, catching the eye on their long-awaited return to the Premier League.

The likes of Kalvin Phillips, Raphinha and Patrick Bamford have all shone, but Meslier has arguably been as good as anyone.

The 21-year-old Frenchman has excelled in the Leeds goal, starting 35 league games and enhancing his reputation as one of Europe's most exciting players in his position.

The Latest: Robinson discusses Spurs interest

Speaking to Football Insider, McLeish discussed the idea of Meslier replacing Hugo Lloris, something which has been mentioned in the media recently, saying only a huge bid would give Spurs a chance of signing the goalkeeper:

"It’s not easy to lose Lloris and find a goalkeeper of that level immediately, without paying top dollar. Some of the costs of goalkeepers over very recent years…

"He’s a hugely consistent goalie, I wouldn’t rate him the best in the world. I do think there are better out there.

"Would Spurs have to break the bank and go for a Meslier or someone like that? Leeds would probably break the bank to keep him. That’s the sort of levels we’re talking about now.

"For a rebuild in terms of goalkeepers, Harry Kanes, it’s a tough one being a Spurs fan."

[web_stories_embed url="https://www.footballtransfertavern.com/web-stories/latest-leeds-united-news-3/" title="Latest Leeds United news!" poster="" width="360" height="600" align="none"]

The Verdict: Too important to sell

Meslier is one of the most influential players at Elland Road, so Marcelo Bielsa will be absolutely desperate to keep hold of him - Darren Bent hailed him as 'superb' earlier in the season.

Not only is the youngster excellent with the ball at his feet, but he also has the third-highest save percentage (75.1%) in the league this season, with only Nick Pope (77%) and Emiliano Martinez (76.6%) ahead of him.

Meslier could be the natural successor to Lloris for France, but Leeds must do all they can not to let him succeed the Frenchman at Spurs.

In other news, a pundit has been discussing an ex-Leeds player potentially returning to Elland Road this summer. Read more here.