Pd-Catalysed direct C(sp2)–H fluorination of aromatic ketones: concise access to anacetrapib

The Pd-cataylsed direct ortho-C(sp2)-H fluorination of aromatic ketones has been developed for the first time. The reaction features good regioselectivity and simple operations, constituting an alternative shortcut to access fluorinated ketones. A concise synthesis of anacetrapib has also been achieved by using late-stage C-H fluorination as a key step.