The Rugby Football Union have confirmed that Chelsea have approached them with a view to play at Twickenham while they redevelop Stamford Bridge.
A blues spokesperson informed The Sunday Times that the club are looking at possibilities for every scenario as they look to expand their Stamford Bridge ground from a 41,800 capacity ground to a 60,000.
The 82,000 capacity Twickenham is the home of England rugby union, but has never hosted a football match, only previously hosted rugby league and rock concerts. It was considered for the FA’s World Cup 2018 bid, but was later removed.
If Chelsea were to move, it would be in 2016/2017 at the earliest due to Twickenham’s hosting role with the Rugby World Cup next season.
Bosses of the RFU have confirmed the approach by the London club and said the following:
“We are regularly contacted by a variety of organisations, within and outside sport, on a wide-range of opportunities concerning the use of what we believe is a world-class stadium.
“We have had an enquiry from Chelsea FC but have not had any discussions of any substance.
“While we don’t comment on any specific confidential conversations, each request is taken on merit, assessing a variety of factors, such as the effect on the pitch, availability, transport and local considerations and other important implications.”
Chelsea recently announced plans to expand their current home ground in a bid to meet up Financial Fair Play regulations. The club hopes to acquire land from the stadium.
A Chelsea spokesman said: “We’re investigating different scenarios as part of the consultation process we started earlier this year, but have had no discussions of substance yet.”
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