There seem to be rumblings that Zayn Malik might be about to leave One Direction, with fans worrying that the 20 year-old might be struggling to cope with the pressures of fame. We wonder if his recent alleged tryst with an Australian stripper has anything to do with this.

However, those wondering if this could be the end of Malik in One Direction – or even 1D as a group in themselves – haven’t reckoned on the canny contract that Simon Cowell had them sign up for upon embarking on their multi-million selling pop career. “The formal length is for 36 months and an album a year — but the clever part is they get the big pay day after the three years” a source told The Sun, “If one of them walks away before then, then all five miss out on the money. They don’t miss out on a few quid either, we are talking millions.”

Would Zayn really put his band mates through that? “There is growing concern among the bosses that Zayn is on the brink at the moment” a source had told Celebuzz. “He likes the adoration and his day job, but he is battling to cope with the pressure which comes with it” they added. With the recent scandal, which saw Malik allegedly cheat on Little Mix girlfriend Perrie Edwards, there’s been further strain put on his shoulders. However, a rep for the band has also poured cold water on any suggestions that he’ll be leaving. "It's completely untrue, Zayn isn't leaving the band," he told Glamour.

Has Zayn Malik had enough?

Has Zayn Malik had enough?