Enantioselective [1,3] O-to-C rearrangement: dearomatization of alkyl 2-allyloxy/benzyloxy-1/3-naphthoates catalyzed by a chiral π–Cu(ii) complex

An unprecedented catalytic asymmetric [1,3] O-to-C rearrangement of alkyl 2-allyloxy/benzyloxy-1/3-naphthoates was realized under the catalysis of a chiral π–Cu(ii) complex (1–10 mol%). This dearomatization strategy provides facile access to highly functionalized β-naphthalenone derivatives bearing an all-carbon quaternary stereogenic center in high yield with excellent enantioselectivity. The π–cation interaction between the aromatic substituent of the ligand and the Cu(ii) center was proved by X-ray diffraction analysis and shown to be crucial for enantioselective control. Further preliminary mechanistic studies suggest that this intramolecular reaction proceeds through a contact ion pair intermediate.