Chelsea & AFC Wimbledon in talks over Kingsmeadow sale

AFC Wimbledon have played their home games at Kingsmeadow since they were formed in 2002

The owners of AFC Wimbledon, the Dons Trust, have confirmed they have held talks with Chelsea about the possible sale of their Kingsmeadow ground.

Any sale would only occur if the Dons are granted permission to build a new stadium at Plough Lane.

"The club has been in discussions with a number of organisations, including Chelsea," a statement said.

"Each proposal is being evaluated to ensure it provides the best outcome for the area and the club."

AFC Wimbledon have played all of their home games at Kingsmeadow, which is also the home of non-league side Kingstonian, since their formation in 2002.

The Dons took over the leasehold of the stadium in March 2003, with the K's remaining at the Kingston ground as tenants.

Wimbledon submitted planning application for a new stadium in Merton last month, a move which the League Two club see as a return to their spiritual home.

The Dons Trust say both Kingstonian and Kingston Borough Council have been briefed about the discussions over the future of Kingsmeadow.

Any sale of the ground would have to be approved by members of the Dons Trust before it is completed.

"Any change of ownership of Kingsmeadow is a restricted action," the statement added.

"In the event that the Dons Trust Board believes that acceptable terms have been negotiated, then these will be presented to the membership for their consideration.

"Until then we cannot comment any further."