Arsenal announced plans to play two games in the United States as part of its pre-season schedule for the 2016-2017 campaign.

The Gunners will take on the MLS All-Stars at the Avaya Stadium in San Jose on 28 July, before facing Mexican side Chivas de Guadalajara at the StubHub Center in Los Angeles three days later.

And manager Arsene Wenger, whose side sits third in the Premier League, is thrilled by the prospect of playing in front of Arsenal's American fan base as part of its preparations for next season.

"Pre-season is a critically important time for us and we are delighted to be going to San Jose and Los Angeles to participate in the 2016 MLS All-Star game and to play Chivas," he told Arsenal's official website.

"We have tremendous support across America and enjoyed our visit to New York in the summer of 2014 when we played the New York Red Bulls at Red Bull Arena. 

"We look forward to giving our US fans the chance to see the team play live."

"We are pleased to welcome Arsenal, one of the most successful clubs in the world, to compete against the best of MLS," MLS commissioner Don Garber added via a statement. "Our AT&T MLS All-Star Week has become a celebration for the North American soccer community, highlighted by two teams showcasing many of the world’s top players."

Arsenal is still challenging for honours on three fronts this season. The Gunners trail surprise leader Leicester City by three points in the Premier League, while they play Hull City in the FA Cup fifth round and La Liga giant Barcelona in the UEFA Champions League last 16.