Why Leeds United Should Target Artem Stepanov: The Haaland Doppelgänger

At just 17 years old—and standing an imposing 1.92 metres tall—Artem Stepanov has already begun to make waves in European football. Currently on loan at 1. FC Nürnberg from Bayer Leverkusen, the young Ukrainian forward is quickly building a reputation as a complete centre-forward in the making. For Leeds United, a club with one eye on long-term squad building, Stepanov represents the kind of signing that could transform their forward line for years to come.

Early Journey and Rapid Rise

Born in Lutsk, Ukraine, in August 2007, Stepanov began his career at Volyn Lutsk before joining Shakhtar Donetsk in 2020. His footballing journey took a dramatic twist in 2022 when the Russian invasion forced him to relocate to Germany. Bayer Leverkusen, impressed by his size, skill, and potential, quickly brought him into their academy.

By January 2024, Stepanov had earned a contract extension until 2027, and later that year made his senior debut in the UEFA Champions League—becoming the youngest Ukrainian ever to play in the competition.

Leeds United’s current squad boasts exciting attacking talent, but the lack of a dominant, physical striker has often been a missing piece in breaking down stubborn defences. Stepanov could be that missing link in the future.

A classic number nine, he offers strength in the air, holds the ball up superbly, and has the finishing instincts to punish mistakes. His aerial threat would suit Leeds’ delivery from wide areas, while his ability to link play would give creative outlets like Daniel James and Willy Gnonto more space to operate. At youth level, Stepanov’s record speaks for itself—twenty-two goals in twenty four games for Leverkusen’s Under-19s and a prolific scoring return for Ukraine’s youth teams.

Potential and Resale Value

At 17, Stepanov is still developing, but that is exactly why Leeds should act now. Signing him before his market value explodes could be both a footballing and financial masterstroke. If he adapts to the Bundesliga 2 physical demands whilst on loan at 1. FC Nürnberg, Leeds would have a striker ready to lead the line in the future, should they maintain their status in the top flight. This is someone who could also command a major fee down the line.

He is not just another prospect—he is a rare blend of size, technical ability, and natural scoring instinct. For a club seeking a striker to grow with them, Stepanov could be the kind of signing that shapes the next chapter at Elland Road. Leeds have shown in recent years that they are willing to invest in young, high-upside talent. Stepanov fits that profile perfectly—physically ready for senior football, but still young enough to be moulded into a top-tier forward. His hunger, resilience, and experience in overcoming challenges at a young age align with the mentality Leeds fans admire.

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