The former Gers boss, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, insisted the Light Blues would find it difficult to rebuff an “incredible bid” from a Premier League side.

As revealed by Football Insider back in February, West Ham have been keeping tabs on the 22-year-old with a view to a possible transfer raid.

Meanwhile, the Telegraph (22 May) claim Aston Villa boss Steven Gerrard is keen to reunite with Bassey this summer.

McLeish admitted the defender’s “performance levels” warrant the growing interest in his signing.

He suggested Rangers may find it hard to keep hold of him if Premier League clubs do come calling.

McLeish told Football Insideer’s Russell Edge: “There do seem to be a lot of rumours. If there’s another incredible bid from down south, it’s difficult to stop that.

“He’s becoming a sought after component and rightly so with his performance levels. So much so there’s interest outside of Rangers who would obviously like to have him in their team. That country just happens to be over the border in England.

“They will also be aware that if someone comes in with a monstrous bid for him, it can help them recruit more players. Obviously, they would need to fill the void that he leaves and he’s proven to be a very versatile player.”

As revealed by Football Insider on Saturday (21 May), Rangers are preparing to offer Bassey a new contract with a “massive” pay hike.

His current deal at Ibrox runs until the summer of 2024.