The Peru Two pair have come a long way from that fateful 2013 day at Jorge Chávez International Airport in Lima as it is reported both young women are now in “advanced talks” to appear on Channel 5’s Big Brother.

Michaella McCollum, from Northern Ireland, and Melissa Reid, from Lenzie near Glasgow, became known as the Peru Two around the world after being caught trying to smuggle 24lb (11kg) of cocaine worth £1.5 million out of the South American country.

Both women were jailed for six years and eight months after admitting the crime, but were freed last year after making a deal with Peruvian authorities.

READ MORE: Lenzie drugs mule agreed trip as she 'wanted to boast about it'

Now, though, according to The Sun, a source close to McCollum revealed how she has been very eager to “build up her profile and her image.”

The source told the newspaper: “Big Brother producers have been chatting to her about getting her on the next series of the show, which is a pairs theme.

“Her accomplice, Melissa, is less excited by the whole showbiz world but - because of the theme - producers think they would be the ideal signing.”

The new theme is a first for the reality TV show in which producers have been seeking applications from two people, be they partners, friends, or relatives.

READ MORE: Michelle McManus: 'Only Peru Two know the truth'

Although applications for the series are now closed, the official BB Facebook auditions page explained how the show was looking for people who “fancy themselves as TV’s next duo.”

The advert at the time added: “We’re on the lookout for outgoing pairs with strong opinions and stand out personalities from across the UK!

“You can apply with anyone you consider to be family - all welcome to apply.”

Just last month, McCollum described her fight for release - and settling back into life at home - as “a long ride.”

Writing on her Facebook page, she told her followers: “Now that i have the chance i just want to thank everyone who has supported myself and family through these past few years.

Glasgow Times:

“Please know i truly appreciate each one who cared and had my back. Thank you for all the sweet messages i have not got reading them all just yet or got a chance to reply to them but i will definitely make a good attempt to get back to you all.

“It has been a long ride to get where i am today but it just shows that when we fight hard enough for something we can achive [sic] it.”