Will Tom Welling Sign for a Ninth Season?

There's been much speculation regarding whether or not "Smallville" would go beyond the current eighth season, with the biggest obstacle being actor availability. Well EW's "Ask Ausiello" claims to have inside information on whether Tom Welling would come back for a ninth season...

Question: Any news as to whether Tom Welling has signed on for another season of Smallville?Ausiello: Yes, there's news, and it's good. Some would even call it, ahem, super. According to a well-placed Smallville insider, Welling is nearing a deal to return for a ninth season. I'm told they're just ironing out some minor deal points, such as should the Brinks Truck pull into the actor's driveway, or just unload on the street.

I'm sure we'll be hearing more about this as Season 8's finale draws closer.