Aquaintance is someone who isnt a close friend. just someone you know.. is that what you're after ?

Is приятель not as close/familiar as друг? If we have someone we know but not close enough to be called a friend (or pal, mate, buddy etc... these are all friendly forms), then "acquaintance" is probably the best option. You know the person, but not closely. If it's from a work situation, use "colleague". If it's someone you only talk to for business or getting something done, use "contact". This is probably closer to the meaning of знакомый.

You can call them a new friend if you think they will be a friend. New friend can be used with someone you have met once and it should not be strange.

There is a word, 'acquaintance', which is - I think - not frequently used, it means someone whom you know slightly but not your close friend. It is can be good for some situation.

"What should I call..." (not "How...").