The highly-rated 23-year-old midfielder is reported by the Norwich website to be undergoing a medical ahead of a proposed two-month switch from Lancashire, with the expectancy of a permanent deal being completed in January.
Etuhu signed for Preston from Manchester City in 2002 and has scored 18 goals in 100 starts for the Lillywhites. He was David Moyes' final signing before moving to Everton, but has found opportunities in the first team limited under Billy Davies this term.
Etuhu would provide much-needed competition for places in the Norwich midfield, particularly in light of Dean Marney's three-month absence with an achilles injury.