The Blues will reveal their proposals at a consultation meeting to local residents and supporters at a Stamford Bridge exhibition running from June 30 to July 2.
Stamford Bridge is in need of redevelopment
Twickenham has previously been touted as a potential temporary home for the Premier League champions and Chelsea have held discussions with Rugby Football Union’s Ian Ritchie, while Wembley would be another option.
Premier League's biggest stadiums - and how much they earn
*Stadium capacity from 2015-16 **Figure relates to 2013/14 season Note: Some elements estimated
There is the possibility of rebuilding Stamford Bridge without having to move away, but such a project could take four seasons and would mean the team playing in front of a reduced capacity.
Chelsea previously considered building a new stadium at Earls Court, White City and Battersea Power Station, but are now focussing their energy on redeveloping Stamford Bridge.
There are several challenging aspects with the environment Chelsea have to work on. The current site is only 12 acres, while 60,000-capacity stadiums are normally built on at least 20 acres of land. There are also railway tracks at the back of the East Stand that would have to be built over.
Chelsea insist the plans are still very much in their infancy and are “years” from being made reality, although there has been internal talk of the team playing in a new stadium in 10 years’ time.
Abramovich last year commissioned a study of the area from Fulham Broadway to Stamford Bridge and beyond to examine the potential of upgrading the streetscape as well as the stadium.
A Chelsea statement read: “A year ago a study of the area from Fulham Broadway to Stamford Bridge and beyond was commissioned by Chelsea Football Club owner Roman Abramovich to examine the potential of upgrading the streetscape.
“The study also began to assess the feasibility of an expansion of the stadium capacity within the existing historical site boundary, based on the principles of improving site access, benefiting the neighbourhood and enhancing the spectator experience.
Roman Abramovich is keen to push ahead with redevelopment plans
“Mr Abramovich has appointed a professional team to assess, in more detail, the feasibility of expanding the existing stadium capacity at Stamford Bridge Grounds.
“The process now enters a further local consultation phase. This will include an explanation of the rationale for expansion, driven by spectator demand for more seats and the need to increase stadium revenue to remain competitive with our major rivals, this revenue being especially important under Financial Fair Play rules.
“Technical solutions for stadium capacity expansion are being investigated initially.
“This stage of the consultation will focus at present on discussing the rationale and technical solutions for expansion with residents and match-going spectators.
