The sporting tournament was due to be held in Victoria but the Australian state pulled out last year over rising costs.

The Commonwealth Games Federation (CGF) is in advanced talks with other nations to host the games but a back-up plan has been drawn up for the competition to return to Glasgow if talks with other countries fail.

Scottish Labour MSP Paul Sweeney said the proposal could be a big opportunity to “put the city’s regeneration back on track”.

In a post to X, Mr Sweeney added: “I first raised the idea of Glasgow standing in to host the 2026 Commonwealth Games with Ministers last July, after the Australians pulled out.

“With most of the sports facilities in place, the focus should be accelerating new housing projects and the SEC Glasgow expansion project.

“The Cowlairs Masterplan for 850 new homes has been prepared by Glasgow City Council. It would be an ideal location for the Athletes’ Village and could begin construction within weeks if Glasgow becomes host city.

“This would bring massive regeneration benefits to Springburn and Possilpark.

“Another option for accelerated housing development in Glasgow for an Athletes’ Village could be the already consented scheme for 1500 homes on the old College Goods Station site. This would regenerate 7.5 acres of land that has been derelict for 56 years, just off the High Street.”

If successful, it would be the second time the Commonwealth Games is held in Glasgow and the fourth in Scotland.

Under plans to reduce the costs for hosts, the games would be significantly slimmed down with Glasgow offering around ten to 13 sports instead of the 20 Birmingham had in 2022.