This paper describes the structure–activity relationships of a new class of cytomegalovirus DNA polymerase inhibitors having two aryl groups joined by an acyloxyamidine linker. Examination of a series of analogues in which the terminal groups are varied revealed a very narrow SAR around the 2, 4-dichlorophenyl group of the lead compound, but a variety of replacements for the benzothiazole ring are compatible with activity. The most notable ...