Pd-Catalyzed Cross-Coupling Reactions of Amides and Aryl Mesylates

A catalyst, based on a biarylphosphine ligand, for the Pd-catalyzed cross-coupling reactions of amides and aryl mesylates is described. This system allows an array of aryl and heteroaryl mesylates to be transformed into the corresponding N-aryl amides in moderate to excellent yields.