Abstract Within the mixed ligand [2+1] approach several model complexes of the general formula [ 99m Tc(OH 2 )(L∩L)(CO) 3 ] have been synthesized in one step starting from [TcO 4 ] − . Only one bidentate ligand co‐ordinates to the metal centre allowing the co‐ordination of a monodentate ligand which can easily be connected to a biomolecule. Our labeling experiments of peptides bound to a monodentate ligand show that the [2+1] approach is possibly too slow for a radiopharmaceutical application. A similar approach with the biomolecule bound to a bidentate chelator overcomes these disadvantages but retains advantages of the mixed ligand concept.