Elle Macpherson is dating a war photographer, it has been claimed. The 44-year-old model has offered a shoulder for Scott Douglas to cry on since he split from her friend, controversial British artist Tracey Emin.

Macpherson, who has two sons from a previous relationship with millionaire businessman Arpad Busson, has been phoning Douglas while he is in New York and the pair was seen at the Guggenheim Museum.

A source told Britain's Mail on Sunday newspaper: "Elle was at her home in New York when Scott rang to say he was in town on his own. Elle then bombarded him with texts."

"We have no idea if Tracey knows they met up. Even though she ended their relationship she is still very protective of Scott and loves him very much."

Douglas has admitted his situation is "complex", but insists he is just friends with the Australian beauty. He said: "Tracey and I split up in November. I thought it was over, but we still speak every day."

"Yes, I hooked up with Elle. I turned up in New York and didn't know anyone so I gave Elle a call. There's nothing going on - we are just friends. My life is complex enough as it is."

"We met up and went to the Guggenheim together. Elle's not my type, though. I like my women more difficult. She is a very good friend but that is it."

Emin's spokesman also denied Macpherson is dating Douglas, saying: "Elle is a collector of art and a friend of Tracey's. Any other implications are categorically untrue."