Pardew didn't see him as Premiership quality, and said at the time the SPL wouldn't improve him: "It really is a poor league, he won't get much in the way of quality experience there."
Called 'Lurch' by Celtic fans because he looks like the butler in the Adams Family ... he was unofficially put in the shop window (again) this summer ... but no English club wanted him.
West Ham and West Brom were rumoured to be interested, which were quashed by both clubs.
Celtic manager Neil Lennon has expressed delight over securing Forster on a permanent deal, but Forster's agent tried to sort out the keeper's future south of the border.
Celtic have confirmed Forster has signed a four-year contract, although the player himself told us he had signed earlier in the week.
Forster has spent the last two seasons on loan at Celtic Park from Newcastle it brings to an end this long-running saga.
Lennon: "We are delighted that Fraser has committed his future to the club and we believe he will be a magnificent addition to the squad.
"He gives us that continuity so this is something we are really pleased about. He is a top-class keeper."