ZAYN Malik is reportedly desperate to end a feud with his One Direction bandmates - nine years after their bitter fallout.
The 31-year-old quit the band in March 2015 during a world tour with Niall Horan, Liam Payne, Harry Styles and Louis Tomlinson.
Insiders told MailOnline he's hopeful of a reunion - and is keen to make amends with his former pals.
"He doesn't know if it will ever happen, or when, but he would love to start a conversation with the other guys from One Direction and try to make amends with all of them", said the source.
"He is trying to figure out the best way to reach out because it will be odd, weird, and uncomfortable, but it is something that has been on his mind."
Taylor Swift's next studio album revealed after tenth release broke records
However, Zayn is believed to be more focused on "rebuilding relationships" than reuniting as a band.
The insider added: "Zayn wants to approach them for forgiveness and friendship. Working with them is not important to him right now.
"He has matured and wants to show the rest of the guys this. To be friends again would be amazing."
One Direction was the biggest pop sensation of a generation – with global record sales of more than 70million and a combined net worth of more than £250million.
They announced an “indefinite hiatus” soon after Zayn quit.
Singer Louis — the most enthusiastic supporter of the band staying together — suggested the group would split for 18 months, but nine years later there is no comeback in sight.
Zayn later admitted that he doesn't speak to his One Direction bandmates.
“I ain't spoke to any of them for a long time, to be honest with you", he said.
Zayn added: "There was obviously underlying issues within our friendships, too.
How stars like Harry Styles, Ed Sheeran & Cat Burns brought back Cool Britannia
"We'd got sick of each other if I'm being completely honest."
Niall said of Zayn in 2020: "I don't particularly talk to him a lot.
"I mean, if he's got something coming out or something I will text him. He might not reply but I'll give him a shout, but I don't know...
"After the band, he left for his reasons and then he never really spoke to us much afterwards.
"I've got no bad blood with him at all but some things have a lifespan. I don't know. We will see what happens. Maybe one day we can reconvene at some point, but not right now."