Simon Cowell is reportedly going to drop Zayn Malik from his label.
Even though Zayn hasn't released any proper solo music yet -despite a string of 'leaks' - Simon had the option to get the rights to Zayn's first solo album when it does roll around, and it's pretty much a guaranteed best seller, right?
However, a source told The Sun Simon might be out of loyalty to the other One Direction fellas: “It’s a big move for Simon because Zayn could have a very successful solo career but his priority absolutely remains the band and this is a big statement on his part.”
Another source confirmed that Zayn will move to a different label within Sony: “Simon has set up a deal that suits Zayn and One Direction.
“Zayn will stay in the Sony family under a different label and it’s totally with Simon Cowell’s blessing.
“It was just felt to be a bit difficult to have 1D and Zayn on the same label — and everyone felt it was better for him to be somewhere different.
“Since leaving the band, Zayn has changed management and lawyers so it would kind of make sense for him to work with a new label team.
“But having said that, he still gets on great with Simon.
“And his girlfriend Perrie Edwards is having huge success with Little Mix with Syco.
“And, at the moment, while things are being finalised, Zayn is still signed to Syco.”
However things pan out, we can't wait to see some solo work from Zayn. He recently had a very public falling out with Naughty Boy, labeling the producer a "fat joke", so we doubt he'll be working with him again anytime soon.