CHELSEA are reportedly in talks to move stadium away from Stamford Bridge.
The Blues have been working on plans to play in front of an increased capacity since Roman Ambramovich’s tenure as owner.
Reports have claimed that the West London club are in talks to move to Earls Court.
The Guardian have claimed that the shift would be to help Chelsea find a “resolution” in their plans to play in a bigger stadium.
It is said that there has been a conversation with Transport for London (TfL), which cares for the site in Earls Court.
The Earls Court Development Committee (ECDC) are keen to construct a mixed-use development that would not include a football stadium.
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The plans are expected to be presented to the Hammersmith and Fulham Council as well as the Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea Council.
If the plan goes ahead and planning permission is granted, then Chelsea’s plan could be blocked.
However, the report has suggested that the plans could be too expensive and Chelsea’s plan of a multi-use football stadium could be more “attractive”.
Chelsea are said to have made plans for the Lillie Bridge depot site as an area that could be developed.
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Fans have had a mixed reaction to the potential move on social media.
One posted: “Now we are talking.”
A second wrote: “We need a big stadium, let’s get it done.”
A third commented: “We are losing some absolute classic stadiums now, Upton Park, White Hart Lane, Goodison and now potentially Stamford Bridge.”
A fourth said: “Games gone.”
Another added: “I’ve been praying for times like this!”
The club would need to find an agreement with the Chelsea Pitch Owners in order to complete any move.
The group holds the freehold of the current ground at Stamford Bridge and could block a move away.
Chelsea has not ruled out staying at Stamford Bridge despite the lack of progress in redeveloping the 40,341-capacity ground.
The club did complete the purchase of a 1.2-acre neighbouring site that was previously owned by a housing charity for veterans, Stoll.
However, the current stadium’s proximity to the tube has made redevelopment challenging.
The report has added that Chelsea could have to fork out at least £500m for the site at Earls Court.
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In March, SunSport exclusively revealed that Chelsea could have to spend SIX YEARS away from Stamford Bridge if they opt to redevelop the ground.
There have also been AI designs drawn-up to envisage what the new stadium could look like.
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
