Brentford's hopes of moving to a new 20,000-capacity stadium have been boosted after they were given an option to buy a 7.6-acre site.
The proposed new home for the Bees is close to their current Griffin Park ground, which would be redeveloped into residential housing if they relocate.
"This is a major milestone and a huge step forward," said chairman Greg Dyke.
"Our aim is to move into a new stadium in Lionel Road and to move there as a club free of debt."
The land in question was identified by Brentford in 2002 as their preferred site for their new home.
Dyke added: "We need a modern new stadium, to keep the club in Brentford, and we want a brighter financial future which will mean we can compete more effectively in the Football League. This deal will help us do all three.
"There's still a lot of work to be done but today is a big day in the history of Brentford Football Club."
