Athletic Bilbao has dealt a shock to Barcelona, who are targeting their player Aymeric Laporte in the current summer transfer window after his standout performances at the World Cup.

According to Sport newspaper, sources within Bilbao confirm that the release clause in Laporte's contract is significantly higher than what is being reported in the media.

Laporte formed an impressive defensive partnership with Barcelona defender Pau Cubarsí throughout the World Cup, and the duo played a major role in Spain's title win, having conceded just one goal in the tournament.

Sport had recently revealed Barcelona's moves to sign Laporte, which sparked displeasure at Bilbao, who are still angry with Barça over the Nico Williams affair and once again feel that the Catalan club is trying to target one of their stars.

Therefore, the Basque club sent a clear message: if Barcelona want to sign Laporte, they must pay the full release clause, especially since the player's contract runs until summer 2028.

According to some sources, the release clause is between 12 and 15 million euros, but Bilbao officials have denied this, insisting the real figure is around double the reported amount.

In any case, Laporte's arrival at Spotify Camp Nou would first require the departure of one of Barcelona's defenders, as coach Hansi Flick currently has five: Pau Cubarsí, Eric García, Gerard Martín, Ronald Araújo, and Andreas Christensen.