AceShowbiz - Madonna has sparked reports she is planning to expand her business empire by launching a chain of nightclubs and bars after she was spotted meeting with a Malaysian business mogul in London. The pop superstar reportedly held talks with multi-millionaire entrepreneur Tony Fernandes, the founder of the AirAsia airline and team principal of the Lotus Racing Team, at his nightclub Aura in the British capital on Thursday, January 6 night.

The meeting has prompted speculation the Material Girl is making plans to expand into the world of luxury entertainment and launch a number of bars, restaurants and clubs with Fernandes, who is director of the exclusive London hotspot. A source tells Britain's Evening Standard newspaper, "Madonna has visited the club a number of times over the last few months, and now it is apparent why."

"She has been in discussions with various potential partners, including Tony Fernandes. He has got the clout, experience and money to help her realise her ambition of opening a worldwide entertainment brand that would be synonymous with luxury."

"Tony and Aura organise after-show parties for Formula One Grand Prix races all over the world, and it is that sort of glitzy market she would be aiming for. Things are just at the discussion stage right at the moment but it would involve opening bars, restaurants and nightclubs in London and across the world."

Last year, the singer opened the first branch of her Hard Candy Fitness chain in Mexico, while she also launched a clothing line, Material Girl, designed in collaboration with her daughter Lourdes.