Nickel-catalyzed synthesis of diarylsulfides and sulfones via C-H bond functionalization of arylamides.

The direct sulfenylation and sulfonylation of (sp(2))C-H bonds of benzamide derivatives were achieved using a Ni catalyst with the aid of an 8-aminoquinoline moiety as a bidentate directing group. These protocols represent a convenient route for the formation of valuable diaryl sulfides and sulfones in moderate to excellent yields.