It seems that Niall Horan is officially getting the chance to break away from the rest of the boys in One Direction! Sources are reportedly confirming that Niall has signed a solo record deal with Universal Music – apparently breaking away from the family by not signing with Syco and boss, Simon Cowell.

Taking a cue from his bandmates, Harry Styles and Liam Payne, with his solo deal, it was "a big money offer" from Universal Music that made Niall switch teams.

An insider close to the deal told The Daily Star, "Universal said they would pay Niall whatever it took. They heard his solo music and they all think it's got good potential. They really had to throw the dollars at him but they think it's worth it."

Another source revealed to The Sun that the former X Factor judge tried to prevent this from happening.

“Simon has made no secret of his expectations for Niall to stay loyal to him and has been desperately trying to keep him as a solo act with plans to turn him into a Justin Bieber style artist. They’ve worked together closely since day one and have always had a strong relationship, but Universal offered a lot of money. Simon’s likely to be so frustrated Niall has gone to a rival," the insider said.

Still, there are no details about his new music or when it will come out. But, just because he has signed a solo deal doesn't mean he is leaving the band – they can all still do both. Yet, this new signals some very big changes to the One Direction fandom. It's just a little heartbreaking because Simon previously said that Niall was the most loyal member of the band, and now he's signing a solo deal apart from his mentor.

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