The 34-year-old won the last of his 42 caps in 2018 and has caught the eye by scoring six goals in his last six Albion appearances.
Welbeck’s performances have impressed Tuchel and, while overlooked for November’s qualification double-header, the striker is in his thoughts with the World Cup looming.
“Yes, he was close,” the England boss told BBC Radio 5 Live. “I think it’s always an option because he’s a fantastic leader in Brighton and a very special player.
“He’s scoring regularly and, yes, he was close. He’s not out of the picture. He’s in contention.
“We see what he can bring and it was a close one. We decided for other options.”
Tuchel had earlier spoken of options within his existing squad to offer cover or an alternative to Harry Kane.
They include Phil Foden, who he believes can operate as a false nine.
In his press conference, he also hinted that he was currently in a holding pattern for the last two qualifiers and would look to bring back Ollie Watkins for two friendlies in March.