EXCLUSIVE! Zayn Malik HAS been rehearsing for first performance as solo artist at tonight’s MTV VMAs

Zayn Malik is set to take to the stage tonight at the MTV VMAs for his first live performance as a solo artist.

The former One Direction star has been rehearsing for the awards bash which takes place in Los Angeles this evening where he will perform with Canadian singer The Weeknd, our source has confirmed.

Zayn’s mum Trisha has been spotted in sunny California with her son and she jetted out to the US just so she could see his first solo performance.

A video of an apparently leaked commercial has been doing the rounds ahead of the awards ceremony which features Zayn and The Weeknd, prompting fans to speculate the pair would be appearing.

One tweeted: “If @zaynmalik and @theweeknd really perform together at the VMAs today, I’m probably going to cry.”

Another wrote: “@zaynmalik Performing at VMA tomorrow with The Weeknd! Siiiiiiick!! #amazingzaynisback.”

Zayn has been staying in the famous LA neighbourhood of Bel Air in a rented home while he works on his debut solo album.

On Friday, he was spotted with his mum as they left Mastro’s Steakhouse in Beverly Hills after enjoying a meal together.

The VMAs take place tonight at the Microsoft Theater in Los Angeles and Nicki Minaj is also set to perform with Miley Cyrus hosting the show.

GALLERY: Zayn Malik with kittens, puppies and babies