R/X exchange reactions in cis-[M(R)2{P(X)(NMeCH2)2}2] (M = Pd, Pt), via a phosphenium intermediate.

R/X exchange reactions in cis-[M(R)2{P(X)(NMeCH2)2}2] (M = Pd, Pt; R = aryl, alkyl; X = Cl, Br) were achieved for the first time to give cis-[M(X)2{P(R)(NMeCH2)2}2]. DFT calculations suggested that the exchange reaction proceeds via a phosphenium intermediate.