“Had me on their radar”: Ex-Bundesliga striker reveals failed BVB move | OneFootball

Borussia Dortmund once had Alfred Finnbogason firmly on their radar. But of all things, injuries prevented the former striker’s possible move to BVB.

Former Bundesliga forward Alfred Finnbogason has spoken openly about an almost completed move to Borussia Dortmund – a transfer that ultimately fell through because of his bad luck with injuries. During his time at FC Augsburg from 2016 to 2022, the Icelander became a key figure at the heart of the attack. In 115 competitive appearances for the Fuggerstädter, he scored 37 goals and set up another 13. Particularly remarkable: In the 2017/18 and 2018/19 seasons, he managed 22 goals in just 42 appearances despite numerous absences – a rate that underlines his potential for bigger things.

In fact, a move to a top club was at times within touching distance. “I know that some top German clubs, including Dortmund, had me on their radar,” Finnbogason recalled in an interview with transfermarkt.de. But the now 37-year-old was repeatedly set back at precisely the crucial moments: “Whenever things were about to become more concrete, I got injured.”

In his strongest years especially, several injuries caused him problems. Issues with his Achilles tendon, calf, and knee meant he repeatedly had to take lengthy breaks. As a result, a possible transfer to an elite club never materialized – despite consistently strong performances whenever he was fit.

BVB transfer collapsed: Finnbogason speaks about missed opportunity

Even so, Finnbogason looks back on his career without regret. “I believed I was capable of playing for a top club if everything had worked out, but in hindsight everything happened the way it was supposed to.” Instead, he highlights the importance of his time in Augsburg, where he became a fan favorite and earned great respect.

Photo: IMAGO

In addition to his time in the Bundesliga, the striker also played internationally, including for Real Sociedad and Olympiacos Piraeus. He also made 73 appearances for the Iceland national team and scored 18 goals.

At the start of 2026, Finnbogason finally ended his playing career in his homeland. Even so, he remains closely connected to football: he is now working as sporting director at Norwegian record champions Rosenborg BK, opening a new chapter in professional football.

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇩🇪 here.