Ligand‐Enabled Nondirected and Regioselective Arylation of Internal Alkenes with Simple Arenes

Abstract Regioselective functionalization of internal alkenes has become a highly efficient approach for preparing stereochemically defined multi‐substituted olefins. Unlike traditional methods that require directing groups, activating groups, or active chemical bonds (e.g., halide, pseudo halide, organometallic reagent, etc.), there remains a strong demand for nondirected and selective functionalization of unactivated alkenes with simple coupling partners, both in academic research or industrial applications. Herein, we report the development of a pyridone‐oxazoline ( Pyoox ) type ligand that combines the features of both pyridone and pyridine‐oxazoline in assisting Pd‐catalyzed olefination. This ligand enables the activation of simple (hetero) arenes and internal alkenes within a single reaction system. A nondirected and regioselective arylation from simple raw materials has been achieved, providing a straightforward route to various trisubstituted olefins in moderate to excellent yields, with excellent regio‐/stereocontrol. Experimental and computational studies on mechanisms offer insight into the distinctive properties and performance of this ligand‐promoted catalysis. The synthetic utility of this method is further demonstrated by the simplified synthesis and late‐stage diversification of bioactive molecules.