PRINCE died of Aids and had been preparing for his death "for a while", an American publication has reported.

The Purple Rain singer, a Jehovah's Witness, was diagnosed with the condition six months before his death, according to the National Enquirer.

The singer "had been preparing to die for a while," and his weight had plummeted to just 80lbs, a source speaking to the US tabloid claims.

READ MORE: Prince's estate to be temporarily managed by trust company

It is alleged he also refused medical treatment, saying "God can cure me," according to the National Enquirer's front page story on the matter. 

The piece says that doctors told the singer his blood count was unusually low and that his body temperature was at dangerously low levels. It added that he was weak and often disoriented. 

A statement from Prince's family and friend's issued shortly after his death said it was caused by influenza, an illness potentially fatal to an Aids sufferer due to their weakened immune defences. 

Representatives for Prince are yet to respond to the allegations.

READ MORE: Prince's estate to be temporarily managed by trust company