Liam Payne has songs ready for his solo album

Speaking exclusively to BANG Showbiz at the Capital Jingle Bell Ball with Coca-Cola, Calum said: "I was in the studio with Liam the other day. I heard a few of his songs. They are sounding amazing. I'd love to do something with him."

The 23-year-old singer has been teasing fans with snaps of himself in the studio over the last few weeks and even shared a short clip of a song, where he appeared to provide the vocals.

The news comes as Simon Cowell previously admitted he was a "bit annoyed" at Liam for signing with rival record label Capitol rather than choosing to stay with Sony Music.

He said: "It is a bit annoying if I am honest with you - mainly because it is a another label who has now got your artist who you worked with for so many years. But that is the music business, unfortunately. I don't think anyone else from the band will do that.

"We had spoken a lot - him and I - about what he wanted to do next. But I guess he read about Harry's deal and thought we weren't interested. My impression was that he wasn't in any hurry to make a record because he discussed this last year. He was more into songwriting.

"I was teasing him saying, 'If you come up with a great song Liam make sure it is for you and don't give it away. When you're ready I am ready.' So I was a bit surprised. Of course there is a part of you that goes, 'Maybe we should have had the conversation.' That maybe is my fault but it has happened now."