Aston Merrygold says Zayn Malik had ambitions to go solo for years.

The singer left One Direction in the spring and is due to release his first album next year.

Speaking to the Daily Mail, former JLS man Merrygold said he had previously spoken to Malik about developing an individual style.

When asked if the singer wanted to leave One Direction for some time, he said: "Yeah, definitely.

"Everyone has their own individuality and [wants to] improve their brand in whatever way that may be.

"It’s funny, a couple of years ago we had a conversation talking about music and [we were] very very connected on that level. [He’s an] RnB boy, loves his old school Rnb and I’m very much looking forward to the album."

Malik signed a solo deal with RCA earlier this year.

Follow us: @Pressparty on Twitter / Pressparty on Facebook.

Watch Aston Merrygold in action below: