Chelsea 'to decide whether to build a new stadium at Earl's Court or not'

Chelsea are hopeful of deciding whether to commit to remaining at Stamford Bridge or pursuing a new stadium at Earl's Court this summer, but have reportedly been warned the latter could result in fan protests.

A complete rebuild of Stamford Bridge, redeveloping the stadium or relocating to Earl's Court are among the three options being considered for the club's stadium project.

Sportsmail revealed Chelsea's American ownership is considering building a stadium at Stamford Bridge that could cost up to £2billion, but would involve them playing at an alternative venue for four years, either at Fulham's Craven Cottage, Twickenham or Wembley.

New owners Todd Boehly and Clearlake Capital are determined to transform the stadium into a world-class venue, which would mean not retaining any of the current stands should they opt to remain at Stamford Bridge.

A 60,000-seat ground on a 40-acre site in Earls Court remains an option, which was previously considered in 2013 under former owner Roman Abramovich.

According to the Times, Chelsea's board are hopeful of deciding their preference this summer, but will not commit to a decision until timeframes and costs are fully evaluated.

The club has been warned they could face significant protests which helped to end the European Super League project in 2021, should they decide to leave Stamford Bridge for a new stadium at Earl's Court.

An anti-Earl’s Court group has reportedly been established by concerned fans, who have passed questions on to Chelsea's Fan Advisory Board.

'If they consider Earl's Court, we might see the same supporter demonstrations that put paid to the European Super League [in 2021],' a fan involved in the group told the Times.

'Todd Boehly has to give a guarantee that Chelsea will stay at the Bridge. Out of the 13 London clubs, only one has never moved home. Chelsea.

'We had a 'Save the Bridge' campaign in the Eighties — this is Bridge two.

'England's three remaining historic club venues are Anfield, Old Trafford and Stamford Bridge, each with their own culture. We have to stay at the Bridge.'

Chelsea's ownership are still 'exploring options' and remains in close contact with the board of the Chelsea Pitch Owners, which owns the Stamford Bridge pitch.

Boehly and Clearlake Capital have made it clear relocation would only happen with consent from the CPO, meaning tearing down Stamford Bridge and rebuilding a stadium - as former owner Abramovich intended to do.

Planning permission to expand Stamford Bridge to a 60,000 capacity expired under Abramovich's leadership of the club.

Chelsea are expected to find out this month whether they have acquired a 1.2-acre site next to the stadium for £50m.

Should the club secure the land belonging to Stoll, a housing association which provides housing for military veterans, it would give a massive boost to their hopes of rebuilding on the current site.

Stamford Bridge is significantly smaller than the rest of the 'Big Six' in the Premier League, with the club keen to develop a new ground to bring them up to the same level as their main rivals.