I don't suppose it's correct procedure, but I always ask A/G for "arrival information" and usually get runway in use, QFE or QNH, and wind info.
Sometimes, if they report no other traffic and we're close to runway heading, I'll ask "Do you mind if we join direct on final?". Some have gone so far as to say "We'd be glad if you did, as it keeps down the noise complaints." Others say they prefer overhead joins, so we do.
As long as we both know that this is "airfield operator's preference" rather than ATC clearance, it seems OK to me.