Arsenal could play in the Community Shield even if they lose next Saturday's FA Cup semi-final to Manchester City.
Pep Guardiola's side — and Manchester United, who face Chelsea in the other tie — could be unavailable to face champions Liverpool next month due to European commitments.
The FA are determined to stage the Community Shield, the traditional season curtain-raiser between the champions and FA Cup winners, at the end of August to avoid having to pay a rebate to broadcasters and are looking at contingency plans should City or United win the Wembley final.