The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 5 letter word TENDS
I've seen this crossword clue in The Daily Telegraph
T
E
N
D
S
Buddy explains!

The straight part
We know that "Pays attention to" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case pays attention to = tends.The cryptic/wordplay part
In cryptic crossword there's often an wordplay/cryptic part as well.This part involves a more complex hint, such as an anagram, homophone, hidden word, etc.
Sadly, We don't have an explanation for this specific crossword clue yet.
What does TENDS mean?
TENDS verb- (Old English law) To make a tender of; to offer or tender.
- (followed by a to-infinitive) To be likely, or probable to do something, or to have a certain habit or leaning.
- To contribute to or toward some outcome.
- (with to) To look after (e.g. an ill person.)
- To accompany as an assistant or protector; to care for the wants of; to look after; to watch; to guard.
- To wait (upon), as attendants or servants; to serve; to attend.
- To await; to expect.
- To be attentive to; to note carefully; to attend to.
- To manage (an anchored vessel) when the tide turns, to prevent it from entangling the cable when swinging.
- To kindle; ignite; set on fire; light; inflame; burn.