Two Premier League interested in moving to England Rugby's Twickenham
Rugby NewsThursday, 10 July 2025 at 20:57
Chelsea could be set for a sensational temporary move to Twickenham Stadium as the club looks to finally push ahead with long-awaited redevelopment work at Stamford Bridge.
The Rugby Football Union (RFU) has confirmed it's open to discussions about a groundshare at the home of English rugby, though any deal faces a major hurdle – local council approval.
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“There have been conversations previously,” said RFU CEO Bill Sweeney. “It would be a big financial number.”
Stamford Bridge rebuild edges closer
The Blues have long mulled over how best to modernise Stamford Bridge, but with no clear short-term alternative, Twickenham – with its 82,000-seat capacity – remains firmly on the radar.
The venue was even discussed as a possible option as far back as 2017, with Chelsea revisiting the idea as they weigh up their redevelopment timeline.
Cash boost for the RFU?
With the RFU posting record losses last year, a deal with Chelsea could provide a welcome financial lifeline.
Sweeney hinted that the Union is keen to explore non-rugby revenue streams, but warned any such move would require amendments to current rules limiting Twickenham to just three non-rugby events per year, capped at 55,000 fans.
Council concerns could block the move
One major stumbling block remains: Richmond Borough Council. The local authority has the final say and may push back due to concerns from residents over increased traffic, noise, and footfall.
“They're a little bit more sensitive... it may depend on which club it is,” Sweeney added.
Brentford also in the mix?
It’s not just Chelsea being linked to Twickenham. Brentford FC—whose CEO Jon Varney previously worked for the RFU—were also mentioned in rumours.
While Varney told fans there are currently no active discussions, he didn’t shut the door entirely on a future move.
What next?
For Chelsea fans, all eyes will now be on developments around Stamford Bridge. If work begins, a temporary home will be essential—and Twickenham could become a surprise Premier League venue.
The ball’s now in Richmond Council’s court.
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Four Lions Who WON’T Feature in the Test Series vs Australia
With the first Test just over a week away, the Lions coaches are narrowing down their selections — and the pressure is at boiling point.
While some players have grabbed their chances, others have faltered at the worst possible moment.
Whether it’s form, fitness, or simply being outplayed by teammates, these four big names look set to miss out when the Lions take on the Wallabies in the Test arena.
1. Fin Smith
Opportunity missed.
There was a real sense that Fin Smith needed a standout showing to stay in the mix for the No.10 jersey — especially with Owen Farrell lurking and Marcus Smith offering more versatility.
Instead, the Saints fly-half delivered two underwhelming performances. He looked nervy against Argentina and struggled to control the game against the Waratahs, forcing too much and paying the price with errors.
With Finn Russell locked in and both Farrell and Marcus Smith ahead of him, Fin’s Test hopes have likely faded.
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2. Pierre Schoeman
Overpowered when it mattered most.
The Lions scrum was meant to be a weapon — but against the Western Force, it was anything but. Schoeman struggled to assert himself and was part of a front row that got bullied.
With Ellis Genge putting in a dominant display the previous week, the Scottish loosehead couldn’t have picked a worse time to fall short. His usual power and edge just weren’t there.
Ireland’s Andrew Porter looks primed to take the bench role, leaving Schoeman on the outside looking in.
3. Duhan van der Merwe
Class is permanent — but form is everything.
Four years ago, Duhan van der Merwe was the Lions’ wrecking ball. But this tour, he’s looked sluggish, short on sharpness, and lacking his usual cutting edge.
Injuries have clearly disrupted his preparation, and it’s shown. Defensively vulnerable and ineffective in attack, he’s lost serious ground.
With James Lowe and Tommy Freeman both impressing, it’s hard to see how Duhan forces his way back into the Test conversation in time.
4. Tom Curry
Not the return he needed.
Few positions are more hotly contested than openside flanker — and Tom Curry just hasn’t done enough to separate himself. Against the Brumbies, he worked hard and managed an assist, but it wasn’t clean.
Turnovers, penalties, and a second-half fade led to an early substitution. Meanwhile, Jac Morgan and Josh van der Flier are ticking all the boxes, and Ben Earl’s versatility adds even more value.
Curry’s class is undeniable, but on current form, he looks set to miss the Test 23.
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