The 'Baggies' signed the Northern Irishman for a bargain £6m two years ago but a series of strong performances have shown that he still has plenty left in his locker.
Indeed, Pardew blieves that the defender is still good enough to play for a club of United's stature and that Jose Mourinho would love to have him to call upon on Sunday.
He's just a great player,' Pardew told the press.
'I think he showed that the other night against Liverpool. Make no mistake, he could easily wear a Manchester United shirt on Sunday.'
Both Manchester City and Arsenal were linked with moves for the 29-year-old in the summer and the pair are thought to be open to reviving their interest in January, though Pardew remains hopeful that he can convince his star to remain with the club.
'I am hopeful, but football is football,' he admitted.