One Direction fans could be in for a special surprise during tonight’s MTV VMA awards, as the rumour is that former member Zayn Malik will be taking to the stage for a duet with The Weeknd. The appearance would be Zayn’s first performance since quitting the boyband earlier this year and pursuing a solo career.

Zayn MalikWill Zayn make a surprise appearance at the VMAs tonight?

A source told The Mirror, “He's been rehearsing all day. Obviously when you spend so much time with a band and a group you have support so now he's on his own it's different.” Zayn has in the past expressed his love for the American singer, tweeting earlier this month, "High for this ... Weekend tune on a Tuesday ha.”

The 22 year old is currently in LA working on his new album and his mother Tricia has flown out to support him. "His mum flew out especially they're close so she wanted to see her son's big day,” the Mirror source continued.

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The pair were photographed together on Sunday night when they left Mastros Steak house in Beverly Hills after eating dinner together.

But the recently single star is also reported to have a new lady in his life, Burberry model Neelam Gill, who is said to be jetting out to LA to spend some time with the singer. Earlier this month Malik ended his relationship with fiancée Little Mix singer Perrie Edwards.

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A source told the Daily Mail, “Neelam doesn't know if she wants all of the drama that comes with dating someone in the public eye. She is going to LA to spend some time with Zayn and see how things go from there.”

"She is serious about her career and doesn't want anything to get in the way of that but she has hit it off with Zayn. Don't expect them to be spotted out in public together though, both are eager to keep their connection a secret for now,” the source added.