They may have lost a member when Zayn Malik quit, but One Direction would soon get a better replacement.

Band member Louis Tomlinson has discovered he’s set to become a dad soon. According to People, the Directioner is expecting with Los Angeles based stylist Briana Jungwirth.

Whilst they aren’t dating or anything, Tomlinson has happily accepted responsibility. Both families are looking forward to the challenge.

“Louis is happy and very excited about becoming a dad and he thinks Briana will be an amazing mother. It was a surprise at first, but he and Briana are very, very close friends and this has brought them even closer,” a mutual friend of the two tells PEOPLE.

Tomlinson has vowed to be at Jungwirth’s side and to be a “hands-on dad” when the baby arrives early next year, according to the friend.

He has even been looking for L.A. properties near Jungwirth, and has flown across the world to be by her side for every ultrasound so far.

Says the friend: “Louis and Briana care about each other very much and have spent a lot of time together privately over the last few months.

“They are both really happy and although they aren’t in a relationship, their friendship is extremely strong and they are both really excited about the baby. Its early days and Briana and the baby’s health are the most important things right now.”