Atletico Madrid showed interest in acquiring Strahinja Pavlovic, but he did not have direct contact with Diego Simeone or any other representatives from the club. The interest was conveyed through his agent and other intermediaries. Despite Atletico Madrid's interest, Pavlovic had already decided to join Milan, significantly influenced by Zlatan Ibrahimović's encouragement. The player had a strong desire to join Milan, drawn by the club's stature, the appeal of Serie A, and his relationship with Ibrahimović. Pavlovic mentioned that Milan was the first club to approach him, and he had multiple conversations with Ibrahimović, who admired his character and was eager to have him join Milan. Although there were some minor issues with his then-club Salzburg, the transfer to Milan was successfully completed.