The deal will not be finalised until a number of conditions have been met, including Wimbledon obtaining final planning permission for a new stadium in Plough Lane, Merton.

Erik Samuelson, Chief Executive of AFC Wimbledon, said: “This is a major milestone for us.

“The proceeds of this deal are an essential part of the financing of the new stadium.

“The vision of a return to Merton, with all the community benefits it also brings, is now becoming very real.”

The club will also make a substantial donation to Kingstonian FC, who share Kingsmeadow stadium in Kingston.

Kevin Davis, the leader of Kingston Council, added: “For 14 years Kingston has been the home of AFC Wimbledon and while it is always sad to say goodbye, we understand the emotional lure of returning to Plough Lane.

"Now we must turn to the future of Kingsmeadow with Chelsea as well as find a new home for Kingstonian.

“The council has been working with Kingstonian to help to secure a sustainable future in this borough and the substantial contribution from Wimbledon will be of significant help in doing so.”

AFC Wimbledon was founded in 2002 after the original Wimbledon FC was moved to Buckinghamshire and renamed MK Dons.

The club achieved promotion to League One at the end of the 2015/16 season.