The first general method for palladium-catalyzed Negishi cross-coupling of aryl and vinyl chlorides: use of commercially available Pd(P(t-Bu)(3))(2) as a catalyst.

With a single protocol, commercially available Pd(P(t-Bu)(3))(2) can effect the Negishi cross-coupling of a wide range of aryl and vinyl chlorides with aryl- and alkylzinc reagents. The process tolerates nitro groups, and it efficiently generates sterically hindered biaryls. In addition, a high turnover number (>3000) can be achieved.