The Times says Spurs are preparing for life without Michael Carrick by working on a deal to sign Nolan.
Manchester United are confident that they will finally be able to prise Carrick away for about £14 million and Tottenham are expected to offer just over half that sum for the Bolton Wanderers midfield player.
Nolan attracted interest from several clubs, including United and Arsenal, last season.
Meanwhile, Deportivo La Coruna striker Diego Tristan is weighing up a move to the Premiership.
Tottenham, Bolton and Manchester City are among the clubs monitoring the Spanish international, who has been told he can leave Depor this summer.