Shakhtar Donetsk are exploring the possibility of using Chelsea’s Stamford Bridge as their temporary home for Champions League matches this season as the Ukrainian club continues to search for a suitable European venue.

The club have been unable to return to their Donbas Arena since 2014 because of the ongoing conflict in the Donetsk region.

Since then, Shakhtar have staged home matches in several Ukrainian cities and used stadiums in other European countries for continental competitions.

Stamford Bridge has reportedly emerged as their preferred choice because of its location and capacity of around 40,000 spectators.

Discussions between the clubs are continuing, although the proposed arrangement is not primarily viewed as a commercial deal.

Shakhtar and Chelsea have developed close links in recent years, particularly following the English club’s signing of Ukrainian winger Mykhailo Mudryk from the Donetsk side.

Their relationship was further strengthened through the Game4Ukraine charity initiative.

Other London venues, including Craven Cottage and the Gtech Community Stadium, were reportedly considered.

However, Stamford Bridge is regarded as the more attractive option because it can accommodate larger crowds for high-profile Champions League fixtures.

The stadium is also available because Chelsea will not participate in European competition this season after finishing 10th in the Premier League last term.

A move to Stamford Bridge would give Shakhtar a stable base for their European campaign while also placing the club closer to Ukrainian supporters living in Britain.

Any final agreement would still need approval from UEFA and the relevant local authorities before the arrangement can be confirmed.