They believe a relocation to one of English football's most distinctive grounds beside the River Thames will allow them to almost double average attendances to 15,000.

Their current lease at Vicarage Road, Watford, expires in 18 months, but talks of an 'exploratory' nature are believed to have taken place with Fulham.

"There is an opportunity for a Premiership rugby club in central London," said a source close to the club. "We are looking at a number of options and Fulham is one.

"Pitch technology has improved beyond all recognition in recent years so that ought not to be an issue. It's a question of whether we can come to an agreement, although Fulham is not the only show in town."

There has been no comment from Fulham as yet.