Synthesis of [RuII(η6-p-cymene)(PPh3)(L)Cl]PF6 complexes with carbohydrate-derived phosphites, imidazole or indazole co-ligands

► Ru(η6-p-cymene)(PPh3) complexes with phosphites, imidazole and indazole co-ligands. ► [Ru(η6-p-cymene)(CH3CN)(PPh3)Cl]+ proved to be a versatile synthesis precursor. ► Complexes based on chiral phosphite-modified sugars yield a diastereomeric mixture. ► A single diastereomer was isolated by crystallization from chloroform.