Total masterbath remodel with expansion to acquire 5 x 7 walk in shower, no curb. Interested in linear shower drain, full length of shower. Contractor favors central drain sloped 4 ways, requiring smaller tiles. I prefer larger tiles, and sloping only 1 way, using linear drain. Any advice as I dialogue/lobby my contractor. We are still in the initial planning phase.

its a preference thing.
only arguement i would have as a plumber is the joist spacing below the floor
if joist run opisite of drain you would have a structural problem
a rd drain in center of floor is a whole lot easier

Since either will work, then it is up to you. A central drain is easier. easier = less expensive. As long as the joists allow for the end drain with the larger tile and you are willing to pay for any extra costs to build it this way, then you should get what you want.

If the estimate is already been given and you do not want to pay any extra costs then you do it his way.