Pretty un-professional to say the least. Direct routing (shorter) and upgrades are 2 different things.
I would think a slightly more PC approach like "xyz on board, please look after them...".
Crews should never feel obligated to bump up people in order to get preferential treatment and likewise, ATC's should not feel obligated to send direct because of an upgrade.
I would gladly accept an upgrade though were it ever offered though...........