Chelsea buy land next to Stamford Bridge in boost to stadium redevelopment plans

Chelsea have agreed to buy a 1.2-acre site next to Stamford Bridge, increasing the chances that the Blues won't have to move from the area.

The club now have increased flexibility in their plans to redevelop the stadium. The Athletic reports that the purchase is a sign that leaving the Stamford Bridge area is less likely.

At the same time, The Guardian claims that Chelsea still consider alternative plans, including a move to Earl’s Court.

Another option is demolishing Stamford Bridge and building a new stadium in its place. This would be a quicker process than a stand-by-stand redevelopment but could still take up to five years - and the Blues will have to play at a temporary home during that period.

The deal for the land is subject to the resident consultation, with the process due to finish in the autumn of this year.