Ever since Marvel Studios announced its plans for a female-led "Captain Marvel" film, rumors have run rampant about who may portray the superpowered heroine. A-list names such as Jessica Chastain, Bryce Dallas Howard, Emily Blunt, Katheryn Winnick, Charlize Theron and even UFC champion Ronda Rousey have been brandied about, but nothing official has come of it. However, a new report suggests that the frontrunner may be a relatively new name.

Heroic Hollywood is claiming that "Mission: Impossible - Rogue Nation" star Rebecca Ferguson has leapfrogged the other names on the list as the leading candidate for a project featuring a Marvel Comics property. The report is unconfirmed and cites unnamed sources, so don't take it as holy scripture just yet.

HH says that no official offer has been extended to Ferguson but that Marvel wants to capitalize on her growing popularity and the success of "Mission: Impossible - Rouge Nation." Ferguson was also one of the final candidates for the female lead in director Rupert Wyatt's upcoming "Gambit" film starring Channing Tatum. Instead, Ferguson opted for "The Girl on the Train" with Emily Blunt and director Tate Taylor.

Ferguson, a Swedish native, has been a working actress for more than 15 years now. She began her career on the Swedish TV series "Nya tider" but really broke out with this summer with "Rogue Nation."

"Captain Marvel" is scheduled for a Nov. 2, 2018 release, which means the film will likely start filming some time in 2017. As a result, it may be a while before an official announcement is made regarding specific details of the film. But, as always, we'll keep you updated as more news emerges.