When Zayn Malik quit One Direction in March this year, the popular British boy band was virtually ripped. Now fans of the band, known as Directioners, are dismayed to learn that the singers - Harry Styles, Liam Payne, Louis Tomlinson and Niall Horan, may be parting ways.

IB Times reports that a source familiar with the happenings in One Direction told In Touch via Naughty Gossip that although Simon Cowell, the brain behind the success of the award-winning boy band, reportedly wants the boys to remain together, but the latter wants to go their separate ways.

The insider told In Touch, "He's meeting with the boys before they resume their U.K. tour. He'll advise them to at least see out the year together, but it's unlikely. A split statement is coming." He added that Cowell's efforts may not be fruitful as "there is a lot of jealousy and tension" among the singers.

Now it is known to everyone that the problem began when 22-year-old Malik quit One Direction (1D) with a view to pursue a solo career. Since then, "their bond has been torn to shreds," the insider said.

In the statement issued before his departure, Malik said he just wanted a break, but in its place he headed to the studio the following day to record music. "It was unsettling. They feared being left behind while Zayn got a head start on his solo career," the source is quoted as saying.

Consequently, all the other boys also started working on side projects. While 21-year-old Styles "is champing at the bit to go work on movies," the other boys of One Direction are also making music alone.

While none in the group has confirmed or denied the rumor, and it appears unlikely that it's true. Meanwhile, Niall Horan has already promoted their new tour and their new album "Four," which has been named such because it's their fourth album.