Arsenal hold ‘discussions’ over shock Emirates Stadium expansion, but there is one key problem

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Arsenal moved into the Emirates Stadium in 2006, but they are already looking for ways to upgrade it.

Arsene Wenger helped Arsenal make the move from Highbury Stadium, which saw the club undergo years of financial constraints, but are now aiming to reap the rewards.

It took a long time for fans to adjust to the Emirates Stadium after leaving the iconic Highbury, but the atmosphere has certainly improved in recent years under Mikel Arteta.

With Arsenal performing well, the demand is now at a level where the vast majority of games are sold out, and the club moved to a ballot system for their members to purchase tickets at the start of the 2023-24 season.

However, ticket availability may be increased to match the demand, as it has been reported that a stadium expansion could be in the works.

• READ MORE: Arsenal’s top European nights at Highbury and Emirates Stadium

Arsenal considering Emirates Stadium expansion

Bloomberg have now reported that Arsenal are considering expanding the Emirates Stadium to a level which could see the capacity increased to 80,000 seats.

“Arsenal is considering increasing its stadium’s capacity by a third to 80,000, according to people familiar with the matter,” Bloomberg have claimed.

“Discussions are at an early stage and no decision has been made, the people said. Any expansion might vary in size, and its advisers haven’t been appointed, they added, asking not to be named discussing confidential information.”

An Arsenal spokesperson has responded to the claims, but played down any talk over a decision being reached yet.

“We are continually looking at ways to improve our facilities. It is premature to talk about any expansion plans of Emirates Stadium,” they stated.

This comes months after Arsenal co-owner Josh Kroenke revealed that conversations would take place over a potential capacity increase.

“It would be premature to talk about any plans in depth, but the internal conversations are starting to occur about (the stadium). It is not an easy renovation, but we see the possibilities of what’s there,” Kroenke stated in July.

However, even if the club want to expand the Emirates, there is a huge stumbling block.

Arsenal tube stations cannot handle Emirates Stadium expansion

Any Emirates Stadium capacity expansions would put extra pressure on the tube stations surrounding Arsenal, which in their current state, are unlikely to be able to handle the increased volume of people on matchday.

Holloway Road Station already has to close one hour before kick-off, whilst the queues for Arsenal station after each game have significant waiting times.

It was reported by New Civil Engineer that Arsenal would have to pay extra to renovate the local stations if they were to increase the stadium capacity, adding another stumbling block.

It is estimated that there are 100,000 members on the season ticket waiting list, meaning extra availability for tickets could be welcomed, but as it stands, an expansion appears a long way away.