SIR TERRY Leahy today warned that Everton had no alternative but to move to a new ground in Kirkby.
"One day Goodison will fall down and we have to plan for that day," he said.
The Tesco boss was speaking at Mipim, the world's biggest property event in Cannes, where he is supporting his home city's drive to attract new investment.
Sir Terry, pictured below, said "constructive" talks were going on between Everton, Knowsley council and Tesco, which would help finance Everton's move.
He said the next step would be an exhibition to explain the proposals to fans.
He was aware of some fans' opposition to the move from the club's historic Goodison home: "I am a keen Everton fan and understand how much a club means to a supporter.
"But I think when the plans are able to be presented for Kirkby the fans will be excited by the proposals."
There is speculation that the proposed new ground could be modelled on FC Cologne's stadium that was rebuilt for Germany's 2006 World Cup, but Sir Terry declined to comment on specific details.
He added: "It is always difficult when you only know of the down side and that is leaving Goodison. But it is not possible to stay at Goodison.
"It would take years to redevelop piecemeal and would not get ancillary services like retail to make these things work, so we have to move.
"And I think Everton fans would not be happy walking past Liverpool's new ground with no prospect of a new ground for Everton."
HAVE your say on our Blues Messageboard - click 
RSS News Feed