Nicola Sturgeon set for sensational comeback as she 'applies to be SNP candidate'

has reportedly submitted an application to be a candidate for the SNP at the next Holyrood election.

However, the former Scottish First Minister is said to have not made a final decision and could pull out further into the process.

The SNP set a deadline of November 11 for anyone wanting to run for the Scottish Parliament in 2026.

There had been speculation that Ms Sturgeon, who represents the Glasgow Southside constituency, would quit as an MSP.

Her successor Humza Yousaf, who stepped down a year into the role and was replaced by John Swinney, has also reportedly submitted his application but is said to be considering his options.

Ms Sturgeon resigned as Scotland's first minister in 2023 after nine years in the role.

Her exit marked a turbulent period for the SNP amid a police probe into its finances, which she has insisted did not influence her departure.

The investigation centres on how more than £600,000 in donations to the party earmarked for an independence referendum has been used.

Former SNP chief executive Peter Murrell, Ms Sturgeon's husband, was charged with embezzling party funds in April.

Ms Sturgeon and ex-SNP treasurer Colin Beattie, who deny any wrongdoing, have remained under investigation after being arrested and released without charge last year.