Earlier this month, Kosovan student Flamur Ukshini was catapulted into superstardom for one very simple reason… he is a dead-ringer for One Direction star, Zayn Malik.

In fact, the 23-year old looks SO much like Zayn, that even some of the most dedicated Directioners were fooled! Hey we can't blame them, just look at these exclusive pics he sent us…

The discovery (kind of) softened the blow of Malik leaving 1D, giving fans everywhere hope that there was another perfectly formed Zayn in the world - some even going as far as calling Flamur his “twin”.

Speaking to MTV UK exclusively, Flamur shared his views on Malik’s decision to quit1D, stating: “I was sorry to see such an essential part of the group leave, but I am sure that he must have had his own good reasons to follow another path in his life. I think one should have respect for Zayn’s decision.”

And, when asked whether he’d be up for replacing the 22-year old hunk in the band, taking his place alongside Harry Styles, Niall Horan, Louis Tomlinson and Liam Payne, the aspiring model didn't seem too keen…

“Let me just say this: when I start singing under the shower in the morning, my family turns up the radio so that they won’t have to hear me…Honestly, I don’t think I would be doing One Direction a huge favour!”

Damn, you can’t blame us for trying! Flamur went on to state that he’s “always liked” 1D, and that ‘Story Of My Life’ is his favourite song “because it’s about love and dedication”. Nawww...

While on the subject of love, being Zayn's double must have it’s benefits right? Flamur went on to reveal that he’s become an instant hit with the ladies: “One Direction is a very popular group with a lot of fans.

“The number of girls approaching me about our looking alike might be slightly higher than the number of guys….!”

And, now for the all important question… does he have a girlfriend? Ukshiniconfessed: “I think when you fall in love it is because the personality of the other one reaches out to you and touches your soul and there is no questionnaire which should be filled in, before you decide to fall in love. And - yes, I am single right now.”

While he claimed he thinks Malik has “great style”, just don’t expect Flamur to copy his recent buzz cut any time soon, with the student stating: “Shaving off his hair is a new look for Zayn.

“He is a good looking guy – of course, he looks like me! And he is attractive also with a shaved head, but it would not be an option for me.”

While Malikmay have left 1D because he wants to be a “normal 22-year old”, Ukshini confessed to us that he “doesn’t mind the attention at all”, describing his likeness to Malik as an “honour”. Oh and perhaps the most exciting news of all... there COULD be ANOTHER Zayn out there...

Flamur explained: "This feeling of being a twin is not so unfamiliar to me – I am a twin! My twin brother is fiveminutes older than me. I am the youngest in the family and the baby brother..."

Excuse us whilewe come to terms with this news!!!Flamur then revealed that Zayn is yet to contact him regarding his familiar looks, but did have his own message for the former 1D star.

He said: “I would tell him that One Direction makes fantastic music and I hope hehad lots of fun while it lasted for him. I wish him all the best for this new phase in his life, health and happiness always.”

So seeing as he’s ruled out joining 1D as Zayn’s replacement, what’s next for Flamur?

“I want to finish my studies to have a solid foundation in life. At the same time, I am working hard to build my career as a professional model.

“In five years from now I want to be able to say, ‘yes, this was the right decision’, and do a lot of international work, and see a lot of countries.”

Well, there’s always room for you in the UK, Flamur...

'By Joanne Dorken @miss_liljo'