The Commonwealth Games are looking 'more likely' to return to Glasgow in 2026.

The Games were due to take place in Victoria, Australia, in 2026, but the state pulled out last year, leading to a scramble to find a new host.

If Glasgow were to take on the Games for the second time in 12 years, the event would be scaled back and the country would receive a £100 million compensation package paid by Victoria to the Commonwealth Games Foundation.

READ MORE: Glasgow 'in line to host 2026 Commonwealth Games'

The city last hosted the Games in 2014 and despite enthusiasm from across the political spectrum, the Scottish Government has been hesitant due to potential costs incurred to already-strained public finances.

However, speaking on BBC Radio Scotland this morning (Monday, September 16), Scotland's Health Secretary Neil Gray said it's 'more likely than when discussions' began that Scotland could host the next Commonwealth Games.

READ MORE: Australia offers funding support for Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games

He said: "There are still discussions to be had. 

"We need to understand what the offer is from Commonwealth Games Australia and we need to take that in the round alongside the discussions that we've had with Commonwealth Games Scotland, the Commonwealth Games Federation, and the UK Government and come to a conclusion."

The minister went on to reveal the conclusion needs to be made 'quickly' around whether it is the 'best event for Glasgow and Scotland'.

He added: "There are discussions still to be had but we're making progress."

When asked how likely it is the games could return to Glasgow, the politician said: "I'm not going to put a figure on that.

"I think it's important that we respect the discussions that are still to take place. 

READ MORE: Glasgow could host 2026 Commonwealth Games without public cash

"A meeting with Commonwealth Games Australia (will take place) this morning.

"I've still to have further discussions with Glasgow City Council and the UK Government. So, there are still discussions to be had today.

"We've made progress and that's the important part.

"I think we're in a situation where it's more likely now than when we entered these discussions that we'd be seeing the Commonwealth Games coming to Scotland."

While the Health Secretary has hinted at a possible return of the games to Scotland, he did not reveal when an announcement could be made on the final decision.