Madonna is employing "clones" to detract attention from her while she is on tour.

The pop superstar's MDNA Tour kicks off next month and she has already begun preparations to ensure it is her most dramatic yet.

Although she is looking forward to taking to the stage, Madonna also wants to ensure she gets some time off. To help with this she has enlisted a group of women who will look just like her, in the hope they will confuse photographers so she'll be able to go incognito.

"It was her own idea and she conceived it both for protection and to stay private while enjoying down time," a source told National Enquirer.

"Five ladies will be made up to look like dead ringers, and Madonna's personally giving them lessons right now on how to walk, talk and act like her.

"On the tour, her clone quintet' will be sent out ahead of her to act as diversions when she exits hotels, restaurants, concert halls, or any public venue."

The 53-year-old will be touring the world with her new series of shows and is said to be particularly concerned about her safety when she is abroad.

She worries paparazzi might try chasing her vehicle for an exclusive snap, so helps the new strategy will confuse them.

"It's a brilliant decoy plan, and she's betting it will work!" the insider added.