Michel is set to complete a £3million move to Birmingham, subject to passing a medical.
McLeish said: “It’s probably better I talk about Michel once he actually comes and signs for Birmingham.
“But he is a holding midfielder in much the same way as we play Barry Ferguson and Lee Bowyer.
“He is very comfortable on the ball, has good quality, is only 23, has got good legs and is a player for now but also the future.
“I said I wanted to sign players of quality during January and he fits the bill.”
Michel is not expected to be signed in time for the clash with Manchester United on Saturday.
McLeish added: “It doesn’t look likely things will be completed in time for him to be available against United as the registration has to go through by noon today.
“But I will be delighted when it is all done and dusted as I have been keeping tabs on him for over 12 months now.”
