10-2-10: Torquay boss Paul Buckle has revealed his delight after beating off competition to land striker Ashley Barnes. 25-3-10: Brighton & Hove Albion have brought in Plymouth Argyle striker Ashley Barnes on loan until the end of the season. 9-7-10: Plymouth Argyle striker Ashley Barnes has made the switch to Brighton for an undisclosed fee. The 20-year-old forward spent a spell on loan with the Seagulls last season, where he scored four goals during his time at the Withdean. Barnes has now made the switch to Albion a permanent one, penning a two-year contract with the club. He told Brighton's official website: "I loved every minute of my loan spell last season and was desperate to come back. "This has been ongoing ever since the season finished, and I'm overwhelmed now that everything is resolved." Brighton manager Gus Poyet added: "Ashley quickly adapted to our style of football last season. "He is strong and can score goals, and is the type of character we are looking for in a player. He will be a great addition to the squad." Meanwhile, new Plymouth boss Peter Reid admits he was willing to let Barnes leave because of the number of strikers at his disposal. "I have got a lot of strikers at the club and I want to trim the squad," he said "Brighton were keen to have Ashley back and Ashley enjoyed a successful spell there last season so this move makes a lot of sense for everyone involved. "We wish Ashley all the best for the next stage of his career."