Liam Payne has given fans fresh hope that One Direction could reunite this summer, admitting that the group "definitely" want to mark their 10th anniversary in July.

In the past few months rumours have gathered pace that the band could celebrate 10 years since their formation on The X Factor, with a one-off gig, a TV special and even new music all said to be on the cards.

Last week Niall Horan sent a confused message by declaring there "is no reunion as such", but speaking to People, Payne has said that something is very much in the works.

"Obviously, we know it's a very big anniversary and we definitely want to do something," he said. "I mean, it's a tough one. I can't promise any reunion plans because it just isn't it right now.

"I always put it down to music language because everyone's releasing at the moment with like two years worth of promo. But, you know, it still seems very hopeful in that department. I'm starting to think it's gonna happen at some point. So it's exciting."

Zayn Malik left the group a year before they went on hiatus and it remains to be seen whether he would take part in any new project.