The 26-year-old forward however is likely to sit on the bench, if Arsene Wenger's cautious mention to him during the pre-game press conference at The Emirates stadium is an indication.
"I haven't decided yet, but he could be [playing against Preston]," the Arsenal manager said.
"It depends on Lucas [Perez] a little bit, it also depends on how he feels."
Perez picked up an injury during the Tuesday 3-3 draw at Bournemouth and is doubtful for Saturday.
"Physically his [Welbeck's] fitness is at quite a good level, but of course the ideal way is to give him two or three games with the Under 23s," Wenger continued.
"But the situation is not always ideal, sometimes you have to hurry up."