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Stamford Bridge, home of Chelsea, and Craven Cottage, home of Fulham, are the leading candidates as the Ukrainian club continues to search for a temporary home away from Donetsk.

The move is another consequence of Russia's ongoing invasion of Ukraine, which has prevented Shakhtar from hosting European fixtures in their home city for several years. The club has previously played its continental matches in Poland and Germany, but is now considering relocating to London for the upcoming Champions League campaign.

Earlier reports had suggested Brentford's Gtech Community Stadium was the preferred venue. However, that option has reportedly been dropped because of the stadium's relatively small 17,000-seat capacity. Shakhtar are now believed to be choosing between Chelsea's 40,000-capacity Stamford Bridge and Fulham's Craven Cottage, which can accommodate around 25,000 supporters.

Stamford Bridge has become an attractive option as Chelsea will not participate in European competition during the 2026-27 season, leaving the stadium available on Champions League midweek nights. Hosting Shakhtar's matches would also provide additional revenue for the Premier League club while allowing the Ukrainian champions to play in a world-class venue with excellent transport links and access to a sizeable Ukrainian community in London.

No final agreement has been announced, but a decision is expected in the coming days as Shakhtar prepare for another season in Europe's premier club competition.