BEIJING, Feb. 17 -- Madonna's relationship with Jesus Luz is a sham, according to friends.

U.S. singer Madonna performs on stage during her "Sticky and Sweet" tour at Maracana stadium in Rio de Janeiro December 14, 2008.(Xinhua/Reuters Photo) Photo Gallery>>>

    Pals insist the 50-year-old singer's romance with the 22-year-old Brazilian model is merely a publicity stunt to promote her latest tour, and make estranged husband Guy Ritchie jealous.

    A source said: "It's a classic Madonna publicity stunt - but it suits both parties well. Despite her advancing years, she looks like she's still got what it takes to date a guy in his 20s."

    "And Jesus is getting a boost of publicity as well. Everyone's a winner."

    Madonna and Jesus - who met on a photo shoot for U.S. magazine W in Brazil in December - were spotted attending a New York Kabbalah center on Saturday (14.02.09), although they arrived separately.

    The source continued: "Taking Jesus to Kabbalah is a masterstroke as she always historically introduces her lovers to the religion."

    Meanwhile, Guy is believed to be dismissive of the relationship.

    The friend added: "Guy saw the pictures of her and Jesus and together and laughed out loud. He sees it as another publicity exercise."

    Madonna recently won a court order to have the sons the couple raise, Rocco, eight, and three-year-old David move to the U.S. with her.

    The pair's divorce is expected to be made permanent any day now.

    (Source: China Daily/Agencies)