One Direction surprised fans by releasing a new single.

The song, Drag Me Down, premiered on iTunes and Spotify at 6.30am UK time.

Band member Niall Horan tweeted: “Finally we get to say this! have waited a long time but our new single Drag Me Down is out!!”

One Direction released a new single (Syco)
One Direction released a new single (Syco)

Louis Tomlinson also took to social media, writing: “We wanted you guys to have our new single first so here it is!” Then adding: “Thank you for all your constant support. Hopefully you love it, we’re proud of it.”

Louis recently hit headlines after it was claimed he’s set to become a father.

As yet the reports are unconfirmed, but alleged he is expecting a baby with US-based stylist Briana Jungwirth.

Former One Direction member Zayn Malik announced this week that he’s launching his solo career.

Zayn said he will reveal the “real me” to fans, as he tweeted a picture showing him signing a new record contract with RCA Records.

He tweeted: “I guess I never explained why I left, it was for this moment to be given the opportunity to show you who i really am! #realmusic #RCA !!”

In a later tweet, he simply wrote: “#REALME”.

He quit the boyband earlier this year saying he wanted to be a “normal 22-year-old”.

The band are currently on the American leg of their On The Road Again tour, and will return to the UK in September for their arena tour.

Their fifth album is set for release in November.