The Cumbrians, who lost to Scunthorpe in the final of the San-An Cup in Ibiza earlier this month, have added just two new faces to the side which won the League Two title last season.
And McDonald, who replaced Paul Simpson in the hotseat at Brunton Park at the end of June, is eager to add more depth to his squad.
He told the News and Star: "I'm still looking at players. Sometimes it is difficult to get them in, but it is ongoing.
"The team is doing alright, although I still think it needs improving a touch. But I'm not rushing into buying anybody or bringing them in on loan. It has to be right."