Madonna denies Malawian adoption officials tried to extort money from her

Pop superstar Madonna has denied claims that Malawian adoption officials attempted to extort money from her; and insists she didn't use her "celebrity status" to adopt.

Madonna, who, last October, was granted temporary custody Malawian child David Banda says that she and her film director husband Guy Ritchie are "looking forward" to completing the adoption process very soon.

Yesterday, Liz Rosenberg, Madonna's rep said: "The plans to finalize the adoption of Madonna and Guy Ritchie's son David are proceeding as outlined almost a year ago - the day the Malawian government granted them their 'interim' adoption. There has been absolutely no interference with government officials or use of Madonna's 'celebrity' to speed up this adoption as previously reported.

"All appropriate legal requirements are being followed, including a home visit. Madonna and her entire family look forward to being granted the final adoption early next year - 18 months following the original interim adoption order."

Penstone Kilembe, who was due to assess Madonna and Guy's suitability to adopt David this month, stands accused of asking the singer to pay for his trip and has since been removed from the high-profile case.