The A310 system could certainly overlay Link information and the processors have always had spare capacity with that in mind. The screen layout has also been designed with Link data field areas as a future option. However, the end users are currently looking at an alternative, less elegant solution.
I haven't seen whether the crew actually use the cockpit ACARS printer for plan updates - or if they do, how often. At least one nation seems to expect the ARO/FRS just to get on with the job and to spoon feed the pilots with anything they need to know - which at least ensures that they look out of the windows for most of the time!
Although Airbus tried to lay down the AAR techniques in the early days, the end users decided that they would use the synergy of their own views and other AAR operators' experience instead. So the system design was heavily influenced by experienced operators rather than by civil airliner engineers!
Enjoy brushing off the dust of the Brizzle Waterworks and getting airborne again!
Maybe see you in Spain if we ever get a reply.....