Todd Boehly has sold his stake in Chelsea, with the change in ownership officially confirmed. Control of the club has now passed to investment company Clearlake.
The future of Stamford Bridge is expected to be the most important strategic issue facing the new leadership, according to the Daily Mail.
Sources close to the fund say a phased redevelopment of the existing stadium has almost been ruled out because it is not considered a practical option.
Chelsea are instead weighing two possibilities: demolishing Stamford Bridge and building a new stadium on the same site, or relocating to a completely new venue. Earl’s Court is regarded as the most likely alternative, with the club believing there is enough space there to find a solution to its stadium requirements.
No final decision has yet been made by Chelsea’s hierarchy.
If the club chooses to knock down Stamford Bridge and construct a replacement, Chelsea are expected to play their home matches at Wembley for seven-eight years while the work is carried out.
That is the current assessment within the club. Clearlake are understood to want the best long-term solution rather than pursuing the quickest option.