McDonald retired last month after 251 games in 14 seasons for the Demons.
Carlton chief executive Greg Swann said his club had no interest in adding McDonald to an already potent midfield.
"The club has neither spoken to James or his management about extending his playing career at the Carlton Football Club in 2011," he told carltonfc.com.au.
"James has been a fantastic player for Melbourne, but at 34, he doesn't fit into our long-term plans."
However, the Blues will pursue a suitable deal for emerging ruckman Sam Jacobs, who has asked to be traded to Adelaide.
Another player drawing interest from opposition clubs, utility Andrew Walker, could remain at Carlton given he is contracted for another two seasons.
Follow our complete coverage of the 2010 AFL exchange period from October 5-11. No trades are official until paperwork has been accepted by the AFL and formally recognised after 2pm on Monday, October 11.
Join the AFL trade conversation on Twitter: use #tradeweek in your tweets.
