Bryan Singer has signed a deal with Warner Bros. Pictures to direct and produce a sequel to Superman Returns, according to Variety.

The movie is tentatively intended for release in summer 2009, although the studio stressed that there's not even a script or budget yet.

The Sequel is apparently at the very beginning of the development process and, as with any other project, there are any number of factors that must be addressed before it is greenlit.

Superman Returns grossed more than $390 million worldwide, however wasn't the performer the studio had hoped for. Warner Bros. says they will still turn a profit as the film has recently crossed $200 million at the domestic box office.

Variety has learned that studio insiders will insist that the sequel's production budget come in under $200 million.

In terms of casting, Warners has an option on Superman Returns star Brandon Routh. It is not clear whether screenwriters Michael Dougherty and Dan Harris will return for the sequel.

Dont't forget to also check out: Superman: The Man of Steel