Liam Payne of One Direction has signed a solo record deal with Capitol Records.

It is hardly a great surprise that the One Direction star commented today that he is "really happy" with the deal. He plans to head into the studio shortly to work on what will be his debut solo album album.

The move has fuelled speculation that One Direction may indeed have permanently split.

"I'm really happy to have signed to such a prestigious label as Capitol Records UK,” Payne stated. "Capitol Records has an amazing history stretching right back before even Frank Sinatra and I'm really looking forward to becoming part of their story."

Payne, who is said to be currently in a relationship with former Spice Girl, Cheryl Cole, sold over 20 million records with One Direction. The singer suggested that the band would always be important to him – but that may been no more than routing diplomacy. There were no guarantees regarding future records or tours.

"One Direction will always be my family,” he said. "I'm now excited to show what I can do as a solo artist."

Nick Raphael, president of Capitol Records UK, said that the label was incredibly excited to be working with Liam.

"It's not often,” he said, “that you get the chance to sign such a talented and ambitious 22-year-old who has already conquered the world.”

Payne’s decision leaves the future of One Direction in greater doubt than ever. All of the band are currently involved in other activities - some more high profile than others. Harry Styles is filming the World War II movie Dunkirk, which also stars Irish actors Cillian Murphy and Barry Keoghan. The film is directed by Christopher Nolan.

Meanwhile, Mullingar's Niall Horan is working on various projects, though he recently admitted that nothing definite has been agreed regarding his prospective solo career. For his part, Louis Tomlinson is pre-occupied with fatherhood. He has also appeared as a guest talent show judge.

Finally, Zayn Malik, who quit One Direction last year has released a solo album, to reasonably positive reviews.