Swedish Cardinal Anders Arborelius has been named as a potential candidate to become the next Pope, according to French newspaper Le Figaro.

The speculation arises as discussions about the successor to Pope Francis gain momentum.

Alongside Arborelius, Italy's Pietro Parolin, the Vatican's 'foreign minister', and Hungarian Archbishop Péter Erdö are mentioned as leading candidates.

Arborelius, the Bishop of Stockholm's Catholic diocese, is praised for his prayerful nature, theological insights, and commitment to ecumenism.

His background from a secular country where Catholicism is a minority is seen as an advantage, adding to his unique profile and charismatic appeal.